NOW I know...

So The Red Flame and I celebrated 4 years of marriage yesterday. Yep. I know. 4 years may not seem like alot to those of you who have been married in the double digits for some time now, but for us? Each year we consider a milestone. We did not have the typical "boy meets girl" story, we certainly did not have the typical engagement. But we made it. Were still here. The both of us. And unfortunately, for some that is not typical these days as well.

I had to work last night and so our "Happy Anniversary" was over the phone in the morning and then again while we crossed paths that night- he coming home from work to go over the mail, what was for dinner, the girls; naps? baths? feeding time? and me heading out to work again-that was it. No fancy dinner, no fancy presents, just relishing in the fact that here we are. Were still here. And we have 2 beautiful girls to show for it. And it was great.

NOW I know what my parents may have had to do to make it work when times were hard. NOW I know (or am beginning to understand) what it takes to be a parent and why not everyone is ready for it when it comes along.
NOW I know that you can have "that person" that no matter what, you know he/she will be there. Through the thick and thin, highs and lows and all the in betweens.
NOW I know why I waited as long as I did to get married. There was so much life to live and places to see which opportunity would not have been possible with kids. For me? I have No regrets.
NOW I know why I work hard, everyday, to keep the love alive. To stay true to my values and beliefs. Our girls look at us- I want them to have the example I did as a kid.

My Russian Red Flame, I know others may have been a bit iffy about me bringing you home, but I knew. And they knew the minute they met you. You balance me out. You keep patient with me. You love me. Happy Anniversary Red Flame. Thank you for asking me to marry you in Russia on New Year's with all the "kids" help. It was not typical... but neither are we.