11 Years and Counting

August 20th is one of my very favorite days of the year. It's the celebration of my wedding anniversary.

11 years ago today, at 2 pm in the afternoon, I met my sweetie at the alter and we were married for all eternity. It was a beautiful, sunshiny day. So bright in fact, that we had to close our eyes between wedding pictures to prevent us from going blind. LOL!

I still remember the warmth radiating from my heart as John and I knelt across from each other at the alter and pledged to love & serve each other forever. I still feel that warmth each time he comes home from work and gives me kisses, snuggles with me in the morning before starting our day, and holds my hand wherever we go.

John is a complete compliment to everything I am, everything I hope to be. Together, I know we will traverse the rocky mountain climb and rejoice as we fulfill our dreams.

One of my favorite wedding memories was actually long after the ceremony. We finished our session with the photographer, then walked back into the Mt. Timpanogas temple to wait for his family to pick us up for the reception. As we sat in the waiting room, John had me lay back on the couch. He then knelt beside me, slipped off my what-was-I-thinking high heels, and proceeded to give me a foot massage. We softly talked about the day. One of the sisters who serves in the temple saw us. She came in, placed her hand on John's shoulder and said to me, "You are one lucky lady. You definitely found a great guy."

Here we are - eleven years later and she was so totally right. I am one very lucky lady to have found a great guy who is truly my very best friend. I thank Heavenly Father for him each morning when I wake up, and each evening before I go to sleep. That seedling of love we shared on our wedding day has grown. It's a few feet taller now with four budding branches. The roots are deeper and firmly planted in the soil. We still have a lot of growing to do, and I'm looking forward to the many, many more years we'll share.

Some of you may know that our relationship started out with a dance. Swing dancing to be precise. John and I have enjoyed lots of dancing since then - country swing and ballroom to name a few. One of our very favorite dance groups to watch is Lord of the Dance. In honor of our anniversary, I found this video which I think captures our love of dance, laughter, and family.

Just one last thing - John, I love you. More. Times infinity. Happy Anniversary, Sweetie.

xoxoxoxoxo

Would you like to comment?

Tamara Hart Heiner said...

that is *so* sweet. Happy anniversary.

Heather Justesen said...

Okay, seriously, we were married like 13 days apart? How funny is that? Your pictures are so pretty, and you and John are just the cutest couple! Happy anniversary!

By the way, I nominated you for an award on my blog. Come check it out!

Sheila Bennett said...

Love your foot rubbing story - how sweet. :)

Unknown said...

What a sweet story and awesome tribute. I think what I liked most about it was how it made me feel tender toward my husband. I think it is important for us to remember milestones and anniversaries and get back to the way we felt about each other and remember the love.
Love the pictures too.

Josi said...

That is too fun--11 years. Does it not boggle your mind? You two are a very cute couple, here's to another 50 years or so--in this life at least. Marriage is wonderful!

Josie said...

Congrats!

Nichole Giles said...

You are the cutest couple! I love that you shared your beautiful story with us, and the pictures to go with it. Congratulations and may you continue to grow in love and happiness in the next many, many years.

Nichole

Amy said...

Congratulations for 11 years. I remember and it was a wonderful day. I'm glad I was able to share it with you guys. Hope you had a wonderful anniversary.

Cindy Beck, author said...

Thanks for the wonderful post. Happy anniversary, and may you have many more!

ali cross said...

Danyelle, what a beautiful, beautiful post. It's no surprise to hear your love expressed in this way ~ you both fairly shine with love and adoration for one another whenever I've seen you.

Congratulations on Eleven years!

And thanks for the fun video ~ that was hysterical :)

Christine said...

You guys make such a sweet couple. Congratulations on 11 wonderful years. HUGS!!

Kimberley Griffiths Little said...

Beautiful post, Danyelle! Thank you so much for sharing. Gorgeous pics, too! Last Thursday on August 20th "my baby" had a baby girl! Her name is Sera Amillia Rain Little. It's a great day in more ways than one! ;-D

The Thomas Six said...

You are both lucky to have one another. You have a beautiful family and it is nice to hear such wonderful thoughts about your life together. Congrads on 11 years of marriage and I wish you the best for the next 11 :) Love you guys :)