When I looked into your eyes for the first time……I saw a twinkle of merriment, a spark of surprise, and a life-time of safe keeping……There was never any doubt.

When I took your hand through the unmoving crowd during our first date……I knew we wouldn’t be separated…..I knew I could trust you wouldn’t let me get crushed……I held tightly to your hand……still do……There was never any doubt.

When I stepped into your arms for our first hug……I felt a blanket of protection……my heart surged with relief…..my life raft, tattered by so many storms, found its safe harbor……I let go of my fears……There was never any doubt.

When I kissed you for the first time……the world stopped……except for the hammering of my heart……I was surprised……I guess playing the Tuba in high school really does come in handy……There was never any doubt.

When you told me you loved me……the room didn’t spin……I didn’t head for the hills in a dead run……I sighed and nestled deeper into your arms……knowing this was a miracle……There was never any doubt.

When you held me up……and let my tears fall on your shoulder……as you helplessly watched me grieve over the casket of my father……There was never any doubt.

When the sadness of this loss struck my heart, deeper than I ever imagined……you did not turn away……you became my shield……you softened the blow……There was never any doubt.

When you saw my heart in pieces at his graveside……you carefully placed them in your pocket……silently mending them with your patience, your understanding, and your deep compassion……There was never any doubt.

When you were there for me in my time of greatest need……it meant everything to me……how could you have known I would lose my father in the first three months of dating……how could you have known you would have to hold me up so soon……you were the only thing that kept me from falling……You are, and will always be, my life-line……There was never any doubt.

When I watched two dark-haired little girls curl up into your lap……you held them gently……you hugged them tenderly……softly you kissed their silky hair……I knew your children were a treasure more precious than all the gifts of the world……There was never any doubt.

When you cracked open a Blue Nile box with the most beautiful engagement ring inside……you said the words……over the squeals of happy children……over the barks of two big dogs……over the cost of a future teen step-daughter……I said yes with no hesitation……There was never any doubt.

When I held your hand…….as your mom lay in ICU……not knowing what her future was……so close to the day of our future……I witnessed the most devastating days of your life……I prayed beside you and with you……There was never any doubt.

When I looked into your crystal blue eyes on our wedding day……and saw all the joy I could ever know…….all the love I could ever receive…..all the days I could ever wish for……There was never any doubt.

When hardships strike with their cruelty……when life shakes our foundation……when the world seems a dark and scary place……I always find the warm light of your precious heart of peace……and……There is never any doubt.

Happy Anniversary to the one who “gets” me.

I love you more than these words can say.

Always.