Anniversary Thoughts

To my man,

This month marks our 23rd anniversary. Twenty-three years of doing life together, of being each other’s person, sharing all things important, being refined, refining, and learning more and more about what it means to love someone more than myself. There have been so many highs, and just as many lows…but every minute has been a blessing.

I love you more than I ever thought possible. Not the “I get butterflies” kind of love, although those feelings do come sometimes, but more of a secure love. The security that you will be there when I get home, that you are trustworthy, that you know which steak should be mine, how to tickle my back the way I like, and which movie I would absolutely hate. The kind of love that pushes me to run a little faster, lift a littler heavier, and then compliment me on the wrinkles that have accumulated on my face. Sometimes I catch you just staring at me and when I ask you what you’re doing, you will say “just admiring”. Of course, I assume that you are seeing all the sunspots and new moles, but you say that you’re just trying to figure out the person you love. I know I sure don’t look 18 anymore.

I am glad that aging happens slow, but really, it happens so very fast. This year we became grandparents for the first time. That’s the kind of milestone you dream about as young people in love. And we have…for years…and now it’s here and honestly, it’s the best!

The last few years have been ones we will not likely forget. We’ve watched three of our babies “fly the nest”. This is such a bitter-sweet privilege that we’ve both navigated in our own ways, yet we’ve always been there to provide a soft-landing place during difficult times. We’ve also transitioned everything about our lives. Our home, our jobs, even our misplaced identities…but Jesus has seen us through…and even strengthened our bond.

We celebrated 23 years in Destin, Florida…and it was BEAUTIFUL! I’m posting lots of pictures to document our trip. ;)

I love you lots, Mr. Hepner. Here’s to the next 23 years!