Happy Anniversary

These pictures are old...The top one is from a dance John and I went to before we really knew how much we loved each other. The second picture is of the night John accepted my proposal of marriage (that's right folks...I asked him!). The last 24 years have been best years of my life. John really didn't know what he was getting into when he said yes. Our marriage has been full of challenges, struggles, joy, and happiness. Soon after John and I got married we found out we had lost a large sum of money. He just loved me and kept going. Soon after his graduation we moved in with my mother and two brothers and sister to help them out for a while. (turned out to be 8 years). John was always there, patient accepting and loving everyday. When we found out we couldn't have any more children, he was happy for the four we had and with faith helped me over come my disappointment. When our third child got sick John was the one who never let sorrow over come him. He often held me as I cried and his strong faith never waivered. The night our son died, John held me for hours as I cried uncontrollably. His faith still strong. He allowed me to lean on him. When he had to go to Kuwait for a year he was faithful and strong, an example to all those he served with of his love for his wife and family. When I struggled with personal things he was just always there when I needed him. John has always seen me as someone I could be. He has always loved me and shows it often.

I have been told that I probably am not quite good enough for him, but John doesn't see it that way. He thanks me for all that I do for him. He tells me of the example of acceptance, sacrifice, forgiveness, and love that I am to him. I often feel unworthy of such a man in my life. He truly is a great example of Christ like love. He loves me, he sees me as who I am, not what I do.

I thank him for all his faith in God and in me. I strive each day to become all that I know my dear husband believes I am.

Happy Anniversary my love. You are so perfect for me. Thank you, thank you for saying, "yes".

Stefanie -- 143