9 Happy Years

Another reality of being a pilot's wife, celebrating our wedding anniversary alone. 9 years ago today, hubby and I said our vows and declared our intentions of spending the rest of our lives together in holy matrimony. Holy or not, it's been a wonderful 9 years and I can't believe how quickly it has passed.

I remember our wedding day like it was yesterday. After some unnecessary drama from my father at the rehearsal and rehearsal dinner the night before, the morning of the wedding was calm and peaceful. I remember sitting on the floor of my bedroom with my maid of honour/best friend as if it was just any other day. We sat there giggling and remarking how unnervingly calm I actually was. We casually got ready and then made our way down to Casa Loma where I would finally marry my knight in shining armour.

The drive down to Casa Loma was interesting. I had hired a white Rolls Royce to drive myself and my attendants down. As I sat in the back, decked all in white and capped off with a tiara, onlookers commented and wondered if perhaps I was royalty and so we laughed and indulged them with a royal wave. Upon getting to Casa Loma, I was the photo subject of many tourists. It's comical to think that somewhere out there, my wedding day is part of someone's vacation photos.

Then, finally I got to see my knight - and he would see me in my dress for the first time. I walked out into the rear courtyard eager to see his impression. It was like a movie, the way he turned slowly to see me walking towards him, face bright and happy. He kissed me gently and whispered, "Your face smells funny." And with that remark about my makeup (which I normally don't wear), I knew that our life would always be honest and unpredictable.

The rest of the day unfolded in typical wedding fashion. I had an ugly cry trying to get my vows out as he looked at me with such great intensity, and then finally the minister declared us married. Married... it has such a nice ring to it, no pun intended.

I look back now and I realize that this day could have been yesterday, save for the fact that we now have a child. But, in terms of our relationship, we are the same people, still very much in love and still have the same expectations and appreciation for each other as that day. His best man swore up and down that once we got married that I'd change and turn into the wicked wife that most men have, but it hasn't happened. There has been no need because we have the same respect and devotion that we had as on our wedding day. I feel very fortunate for having found my knight. Life is good....