One year blessed

At this very moment one year ago, I was mixed in a flurry of laughter and nerves, flowers and family, photos and hairspray. I was getting married. That carefully planned morning still feels surreal and I can hardly believe it's been a whole year since I married my best friend, biggest supporter and love of my life. It was truly the most memorable and special time in our lives and I am eternally grateful for everyone who celebrated our love and commitment to one another that lovely June day.

This week I've spent time reminiscing. Looking through our photos, reading our guestbook, listening to music and reflecting on our first year as husband and wife.

At our reception we danced to a live cover of Ben Folds' "The Luckiest", and I've since come to realize we are so much more than lucky. Blessed is the only way to describe what we've found in this marriage and in learning to build a life together. Thankful is the only thing to describe what I am for my giving, faithful and loving husband.

We've made some wonderful memories this year. From the first week of our honeymoon, things have been an adventure. Of course there have been hard moments too. Moments of frustration, confusion and miscommunication. But that's the most relieving lesson I've learned. That as hard as marriage can be, I'd rather be doing this than anything else. I'm married to a man of character who loves me, cares for me, forgives me and challenges me to be better every day.

Happy anniversary, Chris. I can't wait to continue life with you.

All photography by Carey Shaw