5 Years

January 26, 2008 has a lot of meaning for me. It was the day that I made the best decision I have ever made in my life. I brought my dear wife with me to the Timpanogos Temple in American Fork, UT and we were sealed for all time and eternity. It was a beautiful day with snow covering the grounds at the temple. There was a snow storm that week all the way up until the night before our wedding. The storm passed over just in time for us to get married and take pictures outside. I don't remember much from that day other than 1) how hard it was to smile at the photographer due to the brightness of the reflection of the sun off of the snow, and 2)how madly in love I was with Jennifer Nielsen and how excited I was to start my new life with her. This year marks our fifth year together as a married couple and a lot has happened since we got married. Here are the major highlights (both good and bad) of our 5 year timeline together: *Our first experience moving into an apartment with a member of the opposite sex :) *Our first experience having to balance a joint budget... *Our first experience overdrawing on a joint budget (Totally the bank's fault) :) *Dave got his Master's degree in social work and his first Career job working at Youth Health Associates as the Clinical Supervisor and therapist for at-risk youth. *We had our first child together (Reagan) and she was and is still the cutest little girl in the world. *Jen had an ectopic pregnancy, and after losing a dangerous amount of blood and after having a blood transfusion, she miraculously made it through surgery okay *We bought our first Newer car together (Mazda CX-9) *Dave got a new job at Pioneer Valley Hospital as a therapist on their psychiatric unit *We had a baby boy (Matthew) *We bought our first home in West Jordan,UT *Matthew spent a night at Primary Children's Medical Center after he stopped breathing, Jen gave him CPR and he is miraculously okay *Dave was called to be the Young Men's President in our new ward *Dave received his License and is now a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and will be starting his own private practice soon. It feels like I have known Jen for a lot longer than I have. 5 years goes by quickly. It's almost sad how quickly time passes when you're caught up with school, starting a career, having kids and trying to balance a chaotic schedule with work, family and church. Although the past 5 years have been probably the most challenging in my life, they have also helped me to grow more than I could ever imagine. I never knew how much I could love someone until I married Jen. I never knew how much I could sacrifice, until I had children, who I love and would do anything for. 5 years is a major milestone in a marriage and Jen reminded me of that as I racked my brain with anniversary ideas. Due to finances, hospital bills and a very sick little boy, we were unable to do much for our anniversary this year, which was very difficult to accept. HOWEVER, I when we get our taxes back, I shall redeem myself and I'm sure another post will soon follow with the REAL celebration of our 5 years together. So STAY TUNED. Despite the bad luck which prevented the IDEAL anniversary, I can't thank the Lord enough for the greatest blessing he has ever given to me: a life with my best friend and two of the best children anyone could ever hope for. I love you Jen Nichols. You are an amazing woman, an incredible wife, a very patient and loving mother, and I love you today more than I ever have. Happy 5 years sweetie and Here's to eternity!