I Love It When You Give Me Things, You Ought to Give Me Wedding Rings

12 years ago on this day, I woke up early at my mother's house. There was a beautiful white dress hanging in the corner. I went to my good friend Marty's salon and had my hair done, to make sure that my veil looked just right. When I got home, a lovely delivery man brought me a dozen red roses. The card told me how much the man of my dreams was looking forward to being my husband.

I got into my dress and had my picture take a thousand times before the day even started. We piled in my uncle's conversion van and drove to the golf course where the whole party was going to happen. It was a hot day, but for some reason, despite the layers, I was surprisingly cool.

When it was finally time to get started, I walked up a flight of stairs and waited for my grand entrance. My nephew opened the door for me and I took my father's arm. We walked the eleven steps to the arch covered in flowers and vines. I gave him a kiss and took my man's hand, staring lovingly into his eyes. The mayor just started speaking when the thunder and lightening started. After that, the alarm that told all the golfers to get off the course.

After five minutes and a couple gold rings, we were married. The storm cleared up just in time for us to take one picture, silhouetted in the setting sun.

12 years later, it's still burned in my mind like yesterday. So many things were different then. Both our father's were still alive. We were twenty three-years old, with the whole world in front of us. But, one thing hasn't changed. It was, is and will always be the best day of my life.

I love you, Anthony. More than you'll ever know. Happy Anniversary!
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