5 Years

On October 17th, 2003, I would've told you that one day prior, October 16th, was the best day of my life. Dennis planned a romantic dinner for us at ChopStix Restaurant. He came over to my apartment after work and I was in a ... uh ... well, let's just say I wasn't in a very good mood. I was vaccuuming my whopping 500 square foot apartment and suggested to Dennis that we postpone that dinner for another night. But, after a little bit of coaxing, I put on my jacket and we were headed to the restaurant.

Dennis said that his stomach was in knots throughout dinner but I couldn't tell that anything was going on. That's probably why I was so surprised - and ecstatic - when I opened the door to my apartment later that evening and found the living room filled with beautiful flowers, 2 champagne flutes, and champagne. I turned around to see Dennis and he was on one knee, holding an unbelievably beautiful diamond ring, asking me to marry him. It all seems like a blur after that... but I think that I said "yes" before he even finished asking the question. It was a very special night and a memory that I will always treasure.

The next seven months flew by as we prepared for our wedding day. It's so weird to think that we got married 5 YEARS AGO because it feels like just yesterday that we were in Columbia taking pictures at Shelter Gardens and getting ready for the ceremony and reception. I remember thinking to myself that there was no way in the world that I could love anyone more than I loved Dennis at that very moment. But I was wrong. I love Dennis more and more every single day. He is my perfect match and I couldn't imagine one minute without him in my life. On May 23rd, and still today, I will tell you that May 22nd 2004 was the best day of my life.

Dennis - Thank you for being my best friend, my partner in crime, and the love of my life. Thanks for being you. And here's to looking forward to the next 5 years...