Vow Renewal

During our engagement Kyle and I spent a lot of time talking about things that were important to us.  This included revisiting conversations about our ambitions, family life, where we wanted to live, where we were heading in life, etc.  We also talked a lot about ways to keep the spark in our marriage and to stay focused on the commitment we were making.  We had seen divorce play such a strong role in the lives of people we knew and we wanted to make sure we never took our marriage for granted. 

One of the things we both committed to do was to renew our vows to one another every 5 years.  We both felt this would be a wonderful reminder that you don’t just make those promises once in your marriage but that those commitments are ongoing.  In preparing for our vow renewal for our five year anniversary I was flooded with wonderful memories of our first five years as a married couple.  I was also reminded of all the little and big things that are easy to take for granted in the hustle and bustle of day to day life. 

Since this was our first vow renewal we decided to have a barbecue in my parents’ backyard and invite friends and family.  Our friends and family have been such a treasured support system for us and this time we wanted them to be a part of our celebration.  For our 10 year we plan to run away to a beach somewhere!

Here are some pictures from our celebration and my vows to Kyle.

Kyle,

I cannot believe we have already been married for 5 years.  I can truly say that they have been the best years of my life!  No relationship is perfect but my world is brighter each day because you are in it.  I want to thank you for all you have done for me in our marriage.  You are a source of constant love and encouragement.  You refuse to let me wallow when I’m having a bad day and you are not afraid to act goofy just to bring a smile to my face.  You are a dreamer and an optimist and you keep me from taking myself entirely too seriously.  You are a romantic.  You always find ways in everyday life to demonstrate how much you love me. You are so grounded in your faith and you challenge and encourage me in my spiritual walk.  You inspire me!  When I think back on the adventures we have had over the last 11 years I’m filled with joy and I can’t wait to see what other adventures are in store for us. 

My sincere prayer and hope for us is that we both continue to work hard to keep our marriage healthy and strong.  I want us to continue to learn and grow from the amazing couples that surround us.  I am so thankful for the amazing support system we have in our family and friends. 

I promise to love and support you.  I promise to never take you for granted.  I promise to never go to bed angry and to seek counsel with you whenever I’m upset.  I promise that no matter what obstacles life may throw our way that I will love you unconditionally.  I will make you laugh and probably get under your skin at times but above all I will always be your greatest supporter and confidant.  You are forever my puzzle piece, God made you to fit together perfectly with me and me with you.  I love you!