Ninteen years...

Apparently, things have been pretty boring at the Tverdy house. But today...today is our 19th anniversary. That seems like something blog-worthy for sure.

This guy is still my favorite person. Even on the days I have to remind myself why.

A few months ago, we had our friend Janie take our family photos. She decided to take some of just Mark and I. I'm not sure when the last time we had professional photos of just the two of us taken. Maybe our wedding?? Janie was amazing. And as you can see, we are super great at being serious.

 Y'all know this saint in the photos with me. Truly, he must be the most patient person on the planet. I am not easy to be married to. For reals. Between the insta-temper, and the tattoos, and being stubborn, and bossy, and oblivious, and occasionally ignoring everyone around me, and all those other charming qualities I possess, he's one lucky man. Amiright? Although, "saint" might be pouring it on a little thick, even for me. 

I think this last photo is actually my favorite. Even though I look like a complete dork, this is probably the reason we have stayed married so long. We laugh. Like, a lot.

Mark is really, really a good guy. He definitely has his moments, but of the two of us, he is not only the nicest and funniest, but also the most level-headed. And hardest-working. And most out-going. Plus a lot of other good things. And did I mention he's funny? He totally is.

I'm sure I bring something to the table, right? Right??

Happy Anniversary, Dude. You're pretty okay.

Five Years ago...

Today, this popped up on my Facebook Flashback.

It's hard to believe this was our kitchen at that time!

I hadn't started back to work yet, so had a lot of free time. I remember I was having a bad day. I took this shot to send to Mark to let him know I got my agression out. :-) I tore out all the old drywall in one afternoon. I'm not sure I'm that tough anymore.

Shortly after sending that pic, I found the roof leak that the inspector had missed. So, that was awesome.

5 years ago was also when I created my first blog. It was about the remodel. You can see it here if you're interested. I remember really enjoying the remodel project. It seemed like such a bonding time for the four of us. It was crazy, and chaotic, but we sure spent a lot of time together. Ha!

Looking back at photos, it hits me that it was a huge undertaking. And a much bigger risk that either of us was comfortable with. Which is funny now, but we are pretty cautious.

And, I really, really love our home. We lived in our previous house for 10 years, and it never felt as much like home as this one. Maybe because we tended to every square inch of the current one?

Anyway, enough nostalgia for today. I'd hate for you to think I was a big sentimental softie.

Eighteen? 18!!

I remember my 18th birthday like it was yesterday. And today? My marriage is 18 years old. Man, time sure flies!

I also remember the first day we met. It was not love at first sight for us. And it definitely took a lot longer for him to be interested in dating me. But, we got there eventually, and that's what counts.

So, our marriage can officially do the following:

Vote, serve on a jury, pawn stuff, get married, be an organ donor, buy tobacco, get a tattoo, and buy a lottery ticket. ;-)

Looking back, 23 is awfully young to get married. At least it seems like it now. Just look at those two babies!

We've grown up a lot together. We have our ups and downs. Hopefully always more ups. But, lets be honest, I can NOT be the easiest person to live with. To find someone who appreciates (most of) my quirks? Amazing! I'm sure there are a few that he could live without for sure. :-)

He is definitely all of those cliches for me; my rock, my happy place, the calm in a storm. So, what do I bring to the table? Besides chaos, of course. I think my role is to keep things interesting. The joke is that he spends half his time rolling his eyes and the other half shaking his head at my shenanigans.

He is still my favorite person. And for that, I'm eternally grateful!

Happy 18, Dude. You're stuck with me.