Anniversary

Yesterday was my anniversary. It's been 9 years since I married my wife, Anna-Liisa in Billings Montana. In those 9 years, a lot has happened. A lot has been learned, many struggles have been overcome and, more importantly, some wonderful time has been spent together, learning and growing and loving.

I was informed on Sunday that Anna had plans for yesterday (Tuesday), but she wouldn't tell me what those plans were. She is very much aware that I like surprises. I don't like to peak at Christmas presents, I don't want her telling the kids anything by chance they 'spill the beans'. Fortunately, no one spilled anything to me so I was completely in the dark. From 3pm to 5pm on Tuesday was some of the longest hours I have ever spent at work. It was very difficult not to leave early.

I had to pick up our daughter from gymnastics at 6, so I wasn't in any hurry to get back to the house. I left work at 5pm and went to the Aladdins Floral Shop. I had picked up a card at Fred Meyer on Monday (you see my preparations??? Amazing - I am). I purchased a small bouquet of flowers and added an orange rose to the center. When it comes to flowers, orange means 'passionate thoughts'

I picked up my daughter and her two friends from Madison Gymnastic Center, dropped off my daughter at another friends house (as per instructed by my wife) and dropped off her two friends at their house. Then I went home.

When I stepped up onto our porch, I noticed my cast-iron flat griller was out of my grill. I thought "I wonder if she grilled". I got to the door and saw a large note posted on the door:

"Night of a Thousand Stars"

I stepped in the house and immediately noticed the difference. Anna had set up some curtains around the living room, dividing it into one small, cozy, and very romantic dining area. Soft music was playing in the background, lights were strung about the ceiling, laying on fabric-covered tables, and beautiful decor was all around.

In the middle of the area was a small table, table-cloth covered, with dinner plates, wine glasses, and candles. There sat Anna, awaiting my arrival, and welcomed me home.

A particular note - there was not a child to be found!

Anna had cooked dinner, Rib-eye steaks on the grill, mashed potatoes and gravy, grilled corn on the cob, and garlic Texas toast, with sparkling cider and water. Dessert was frosted cupcakes and milk. Fantastic!

I gave her the flowers, gave her a kiss, and we went straight to eating. Dinner was to die for and it was a shame when the food was gone, I could have eaten all night long. The food was perfect, the atmosphere ideal, and the company - like no other I could ask for.

We spent a wonderful 30-40 minutes talking about whatever we wanted, not once being interrupted, eating, and enjoying the time together.

Of course, despite how wonderful the time was, we are still parents with obligations, so we took off, got some ice cream at DQ and picked up the kids. After getting them home and into bed, we spent some quiet time cuddling on the couch watching Deadliest Catch.

Nine years ago, yesterday, I married my wife. 10 years ago today, I met her for the first time at the then Ricks college Bookstore. Next year, I'm in charge of the anniversary so I'm already in planning stages. I'm going big for sure.