10

On August 26, 2000, I slept in with my two cuddling dogs, Abby and Lindsey. I was sleeping in my old room at my parents' house, and when I sat up and stretched, I smiled. I was marrying my best friend later in the day. By day's end, I was going to be Mrs. Jason Baine Seabolt. I wasn't the least bit stressed or nervous. I can thank my mom for the lack of stress--she took that on all by herself. As far as the nervousness--why would I be nervous? I knew what I was doing, and I knew wholeheartedly it was the best decision I had ever made. I can remember a woman who was attending the 5pm mass that evening. As I was walking around with my hair all done and veil in place, she asked if I really was the bride because she had never seen a bride so calm. I told her that the only thing that mattered that night was marrying the love of my life. If that was the only thing that was accomplished, then it was a very successful day in my mind. I admit a bit of nerves struck when it was my turn to make that long walk to the alter. I wasn't prepared to be the center of attention without Jason by my side. I smiled while my sweet dad walked me to my waiting groom. My father shook his hand, and once I grabbed my love's arm, all was right again with the world. Bye, bye nerves. He's by my side now, so I can conquer the world. That day was definitely successful because for ten years now, we have been husband and wife.

In honor of our ten year anniversary, I wanted to give Jason ten reasons why I love him.

1. He puts up with me, my moodiness, my need to have things in a certain place, and my anal personality.
2. His eyes and the way they look at me and let me know he thinks I'm beautiful.
3. His ability to pull me out of a funk. He probably doesn't even realize he does this, but he does.
4. He is still my favorite person to laugh with. I can't help but smile when I think of his boisterous laugh.
5. He remembers the girl I used to be, respects that she isn't out as much as we both would like, and loves the woman I've become.
6. He is so giving--to me, to our children, to family, to friends. He's so much better at this than I am.
7. He plays with my hair. (Can I list this one twice because it really is a big deal to me...)
8. He is an amazing father to our children. He knows them as individuals and loves them accordingly.
9. He let me have another dog when he knew it probably wasn't the best decision I've ever made. On top of that, he loves the dog (although he won't admit it).
10. In the past year, he has shown me how amazingly strong he is, how much he loves me, how he will never give up on us, and how he will do anything for his family.

Jason--these have been the best 10 years of my life. Thank you for giving me you so completely. I love you with everything I am.

August 26, 2000--dancing on our wedding night.

Here we are ten years later...