Sunday, June 10, 2012

Oh, how the years go by...


Twelve years ago today, I said "I do" to my very best friend.  It has been an amazing twelve years in which I have never questioned our life together.  Like any roller coaster, there have been ups and downs, but we've ridden it together and that's what matters.  No gifts or big trips this year, but honestly, the best gift my husband could give me, he already has.  He's still here.  He's still right beside me, faithful and true, and that is all I need for a gift.  

A few years ago, I made a list of all of the positive traits that I could think of that described the man I married.  (At the time, I was mad at him for something, so I needed to get over it and tried a little reverse psychology on myself.)  Here was (and still is) my list...

- wonderful husband
- loving father
- faithful
- thoughtful
- giving
- forgiving
- humorous (always makes me laugh)
- romantic
- considerate of others
- beautiful voice
- great legs
- consistent provider
- understanding
- patient
- fun to be with
- humble
- keeps no records of wrongs

The list could go on . . .

The past twelve years have encompassed two trips to Japan, missions trips to St. Lucia & Canada (as well as many others for Marty), renting our first apartment for $210 a month including utilities, teaching positions in two different counties, ministering in three youth groups, moving six times, welcoming three precious girls into our family, and our adventures continue.  But once again, I will emphasize that there is no one in this world that I would rather travel this amazing journey of marriage with than you, Marty Middleton.  I cannot wait to see what the next twelve years hold for us!  Happy Anniversary!

Friday, June 1, 2012

My precious young lady



It's still hard to believe that it's been eight years since I was so pleasantly surprised to find out (after almost 24 hours of labor) that we had a girl!!  We had decided to wait to find out, but everyone (with the exception of my dad) said that we were most definitely having a boy.  But I wouldn't trade this sweet girl for a boy any day.  She has been all smiles since infancy and truly a joy to be around!  

We tried something different for her birthday party this year and tackled our first sleepover!  Three of her friends came over for pool time, pizza, s'mores, a movie, and a little sleep, of course.  Their favorite part of the sleepover was playing in the mud in our backyard though.  Too funny!



Overall, I think Chloe's eighth birthday was a success.  I am still so amazed that God has blessed me with such a sweet and caring daughter, who is helping me teach her younger sisters to do the same.  Her love of books, history, and animals keeps me busy, but I wouldn't want it any other way.  I know that the next few years are vital in her walk with the Lord, but I pray daily that He will lead us to show her by example and through His Word, that living for Him is the only thing worth living for.