Lucky Thirteen

When I was in the sixth grade, living out our glorious (sarcasm) ten-month USAF assignment in Montgomery, Alabama, my parents packed up the car and drove us to Atlanta for a long weekend. I remember two things about that trip.

Everything started with Peachtree.

and

Our hotel did not have a 13th floor.

It was on that trip that I learned about superstition and the unlucky number 13. I didn't exactly understand the whole thing. How strange that they could just decide to not have a floor 13.

Chris and I are one day into thirteen years of marriage, having celebrated our 12th anniversary yesterday. It was a low-key weekend, and we didn't do much to celebrate besides paint ChellBell's new bedroom and go to Ikea (which is a real act of love for Chris).

It's a sweet story how Chris and I got together in the first place. But getting together and staying together are two totally different things. And sometimes we look at each other in amazement that we -- as complete opposites -- have made it this far and actually had a pretty good time in the process.

Now on our thirteenth year, we have:

Lived with 3 dogs

Had 1 child

Lived at 4 addresses

Owned 3 refrigerators

Owned 6 cars

Gone on zero bike rides together

Been on a TV show one time

Attended one church

Ridden in one limousine

Had 2 fights that we both remember

Burned through 7 blenders

Gone to Six Flags together 8 times

Worked for the same company one time

Each had a multi-night stay at a hospital

Sat through jury duty 5 times

Watched the series finales of BeverlyHills 90210, Ally McBeal, Friends, Frasier, X-Files, Seinfeld, Will & Grace, Studio 60, Everybody Loves Raymond, and The Drew Carey Show

Learned that Chris really does like broccoli, brussel sprouts, and bleu cheese

I have also learned that:

Chris puts my happiness above his own

Chris works hard to help out around the house

Chris always checks the doors at night

Chris will always catch whatever is tossed to him

Chris is a great cook

Chris encourages me to use my creativity

Chris likes for me to have good friends

Chris is not jealous

Chris is convicted to do what is right

Chris is concerned about our financial future

Chris makes me laugh

Chris sings in the shower

and Talks in his sleep

Chris is good at his job

Chris is still my best friend

So who knows what this thirteenth year will bring. But given the chance, I wouldn't dare take this thirteenth out or skip it. Lucky or unlucky. Better or worse. Sickness or Health.

Because I can't imagine living life without you, Chris. Or imagine finding a better partner in marriage or parenting. You're kind of cool. And you rock my world. And I love you.

tons and tons