Dear Husband,

This year marks 10 years of us being together and, as of today, five of those spent as husband and wife. Five years is a big deal, but I’m more enamored with the ten. The decade. The two hands worth of spirit fingers waving crazily in our faces, willing us to join in their celebration. I say yes.

I’m so thankful for every moment our fingers have been linked together, especially for our recent jaunt down Miami’s memory lane. I have always felt safe and protected in your confident grip as we’ve navigated every up and down on our path. You have held my hand in affection, protection, comfort, empathy and support. A small gesture, but a daily dose of connection that nourishes me and us. I love it. I’ll never be too old to hold your hand.

Five years ago today we adorned our hands with not only bands, but also ribbons in our take on the traditional Celtic handfasting ceremony. The main ribbon knotted over our two clasped hands signified our vow to uphold and uplift one another, literally giving the other our hand in marriage.

Today I will hold your hand as much as possible and probably make a lot of bad puns about how long we’ve been “Maui’d.” But that’s just because I can’t adequately say how grateful I am for you and our marriage, and how much I look forward to the next 5 /10 years. Thank you for loving me so well. Thank you for choosing to tie your hand, and your life, to mine. Thank you for continuing to uplift me. And thank you for leading all of our adventures. You know I’d follow you anywhere.

Because I’m holding on to you, and to us, with both hands.

You’re my favorite,

Your Bride

The cutest anniversary dessert forks were a sweet gift from Bobbie, Robert and Abby. We will treasure these as much as we treasure them!