Wednesday by Leah: Anniversary!

Today marks 3 years of marriage for me and Mark! And the first Friday of this month was our 7th year together. When I look back over our relationship, I can’t believe that I was just 23 when we met. I wasn’t thinking about marriage then. Mark was just supposed to be a guy I dated for fun until I moved to Nepal. Because I was going to have an adventurous, exciting, and kinda crazy life… and I thought I needed to move to Nepal to do that.

Oh, 23-year-old Leah, you have no idea just how awesome life can be, and you don’t even have to be living in Nepal.

There are many things I love about Mark, and many reasons I decided not to move to Nepal, but one of my favorite things about Mark is what a great father he is. I knew he would be. It was one of his most attractive qualities, really. Even before I was considering marrying the guy, I was sure he would be an amazing dad. I loved how he treated kids with respect and humor. I loved how kids loved HIM. And I loved the fact that even at the age of 26, even just 2 weeks into dating, he openly voiced his desire to be a father. There was no wavering, no “maybe in 10 years I’d like some kids”… it was just an enthusiastic YES! OF COURSE I WANT TO BE A DAD! I love his certainty in the face of something so terrifying and life-changing and huge. It helps me get through my own fears and doubts. YES! WE ARE GONNA ROCK THIS PARENTING THING!

Parenting is hard work. I’m glad I have a partner who is up to the challenge. Who understands that it IS okay for boys to cry or play with dolls or wear colorful leg warmers. Who knows the importance of dreaming big and working hard and playing harder. Who isn’t afraid to say I love you or admit mistakes. Who will raise our son with integrity, respect, and an unbelievable amount of love.

Happy Anniversary, babe! I love you!

(Wedding photos courtesy of Jason Spruill and Bonnie Heath!)