Sunday, January 14, 2007

Anniversary Talk

23 years ago today, I became a Mrs.

I was 19 years old and thought I knew so much. I knew so little about marriage and what it would entail. I didn't go into it with my eyes shut.... I just didn't know what to expect.

Our first years of marriage were hard. Money wise it was fine. We both were in the military and made good money and spent it all and then some. Emotionally... it was difficult for me. I had always had the worst luck with men and I guess I was waiting for the other shoe to drop....for Gary to hurt me like everyone else had. He didn't. He loved me unconditionally and that was new to me. Being raised in a family that put a lot of stake in 'what will everyone think?', it was hard to feel like I didn't need to be perfect every second of every day... I didn't want to disappoint him. I guess I didn't.

Here I am at 42 and I am happy. I am comfortable in our relationship and he still surprises me. His smile lights up my world and he can talk sense to me like no one else. He whistles beautifully and has an untold wealth of knowledge about everything. He's funny, honest and warm. Others might sometimes see him as harsh.... a man of few words and feelings. I see him as my best friend and the man I will spend the rest of my life with. He frustrates me, infuriates me, loves me, comforts me, encourages me, believes in me and together we make a perfect whole.

10 comments:

Joel said...

I can't beleive Joel and I ahve made it 5 years! I never imagined my life to be soooo good. Glad you ahve found happiness.

lime said...

oh sheri, what a lovely tribute to gary. happy anniversary to both of you and here's to many more happy years together.

Anonymous said...

Oh how nice to read! Happy Anniversary!

Melody said...

Happy Anniversary! I can almost NOT remember when I wasn't half of a whole...Can you?

Anonymous said...

Happy Happy Anniversary!

Most important - what did you get? :)

ccw said...

A very Happy Anniversary to you both!

Anonymous said...

What a sweet post - Happy Anniversary Sheri!

Anonymous said...

This is so very sweet.

Boy, and and Tammy both have such wonderful ways with words.

Happy Anniversary.

Sharpie said...

You have been together longer than apart. THAT is amazing. Happy Anniversary and many more.

Beth said...

Happy Anniversary! 23 years is a real milestone these days.

I hear you on so much. You have a lovely tribute to Gary.

I married at 18. I knew so little about life and love ... I didn't know myself at all. We were poor though. Well, not poor, but definitely not comfortable.