25 years!


























 July 31, 2024


Hard to believe it's been 25 years since Chris and I got married.  We were such babies back then and had no idea the ride we would embark on since that day.  I feel like we've lived more life in 25 years than some do in a lifetime.  We have moved 7 times, 4 different states, and 2 different countries.  Each time a new adventure that we looked forward to the new experiences and people we would meet.  We both put ourselves back to school to get our master's degrees while navigating life with work and children.  We had 3 beautiful children that I've been proud to watch grow.  Being a mom is one of my most favorite things and could not be happier with the family we have created together.  We've also experienced such profound loss and grief mixed in through the years, especially the last 5.  Some days I wonder how we are still standing, but we continue to push through and make it through another day always hoping that things will improve and life will be a much happier place.  We've seen other couples not make it through such loss, and I think there is something about our bond that has remained strong through all we have endured.  When looking up the significance of the milestone 25 in marriage, it is represented by silver.  Chat (as Chris constantly refers to) is known for its durability and strength, symbolizing a marriage that has endured and strengthened over time.  It also represents radiance and shine, much like how a relationship should be celebrated for its bright moments.    We should use today to think of the bright moments and not all of the hard times that got us to this point.  (even though those hard times are ever present on a daily basis).  My hope is that although all of our plans and dreams may not have come true in the first 25 years, that they will come true in the next 25 years.  It's hard to be a planner and have certain points in life that we wanted to reach at certain times.  We have had the hard lesson that life doesn't always give us what we want or deserve, but hopefully our dedication to not giving up is what our kids will look at and admire.  I've written several times that it's easy to do good and be good without hardships, but when presented with pain and loss and still push forward is hard.  Life is hard, but I love the people that are doing this hard life with me.  

Happy 25th anniversary to us!!!



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