“Six years! Can you believe it!” or, “Happy Anniversary to She who’s saving me!”

A happy couple carving pumpkins for Halloween 2002.

I know I can’t believe it. Nevertheless, as difficult to believe as it may seem dear reader, the beautiful woman you see in this picture deigned to consent to be my wife six years ago this very day, on a blisteringly hot and humid South Dakota day. We were wed in the Lutheran Church in Dell Rapids, where her family have been members for generations (the pictures from the various confirmation classes throughout the 20th century prove this). It was a blessed day, that 23rd of August 2003, one that in spite of all the challenges and joys we’ve faced over these last six years (especially the last one), I have yet to regret. The honeymoon hasn’t ended.

Happy Aniversary, M!