The Big Ten

It seems like just yesterday I was preparing to walk down the aisle to say “I do”.

I remember that day so vividly.

I remember sitting in the bride’s room with my wedding dress straddled over a kid’s chair so that it wouldn’t get crumbled while I wrote checks for the last few expenses of the wedding.  (That’s me – all business all the time.)

I remember sneaking out of the bride’s room to go make sure the cake looked okay and that the reception area was set up properly.

I remember looking into my Dad’s eyes before we walked down the aisle and seeing how emotional the day was for him to “give away” his firstborn daughter.

I remember having to walk so carefully down the aisle because my dress had stretched out from hanging on the hanger and was too long.  I literally walked like a toy soldier kicking my leg out completely in front of me so that I wouldn’t step on it.

I remember the teary smile of my soon-to-be-husband as I approached the altar to meet him.

That day – 10 years ago today – I pledged my life to him, Merlyn Ryan Catron.

In 10 years, we’ve shared a lot.  We’ve grown.  We’ve changed.  We’ve succeeded.  We’ve failed.  We’ve laughed.  We’ve cried.  We’ve fought.  We’ve reconciled.

Most days he knows me better than I know myself.  He protects me fiercely.  He loves me dearly.  And he refuses to let me be less than my best.

10 has not always come easy.  And I suspect that the next 10 will share their mix of joys and sorrows.  But I am sure that it is worth it.  I am sure that I want 10 more.

I love you, dude!  Happy Anniversary!