17 Years

I guess it is hard to pick out your favorite day in a year. Christmas is good for it is a reminder of Christ's birth, our salvation was brought into this world. Easter is good for it is a reminder of the sacrifice God made so he can have a relationship with us, and a reminder of the love He holds for each one of us. Thanksgiving is good for not only the great feast, but a day where we set aside and give continued thanks. Each of the girls birthdays are good for it is a reminder for me the joy that entered this world...but I think I would have to pick today is my favorite. For 17 years ago, my best-friend and love of my life picked me and said his "I do"s and I shared my love for him. And it is this day I am reminded of the love God has for me.

I look back 17 years ago, and thought I truly loved this man. But the love I hold for him today can't hold a candle to the love I have for him today.

I look back and see all that God has done in his life. How he has rescued him, and worked in him, and built himself up in Duane to be the leader of this family, and has brought wisdom in this household, and compassion, love and understanding in our marriage. I am so thankful.

I never have or will regret the decision of marrying Duane Archibald. He is the love of my life. He is one who seeks God, and pours our God's love upon me. I have struggled with understanding the depth of love God has for me. But I believe with all my heart that God has given me Duane so he can be a tangible lesson in front of me to see that if Duane can love me through the my ugliness...than God can love me that much more.

Duane, I love you with all I am. I love you because God pours His love into me to give to you too. I love you because of the man you are, and the man you are trying to become through Christ. I love you because you have always been faithful and true, and never have left me. I am so proud of you, and even more proud to call me "your wife". I look back and am amazed how fast the past 17 years have been, and I look forward to spend each day with you in the years to come. I love you, my dearheart! Happy Anniversary!

~Your Love