Husband, I Don't Need...

...rose petals to vacuum up off the floor.

...lit candles to burn down the house.

...an evening away from the kids @ $6.00/hour.

...or a week away to wonder and worry about them.

...anything being marketed by anyone who says
that you should spend 2 months salary
to show how much you cherish me.

...to read or watch or seek out any new-fangled thinking
on how to love you or respect you, biblically.

...you to read or watch or seek out
any of that superfluous material for my sake, either.

...dinner out (though I appreciate it very much).

...dinner in (though I appreciate it very much).

...for you to bring me flowers
(though I think the ones you chose are lovely).

...anything, really
except for you to just keep being exactly who you are in Him.
And for you to come home for dinner every night.
And kiss the kids, read the Word,
Share your smile and sense of humor.

And maybe take a minute with me to remember and reflect.

After 19 years,
we're more comfortable,
more sure,
more together,
more committed,
more like-minded,
more in love
and more married than ever before.

If the Lord tarries and gives us 1 more year
or the 50 that I've asked Him for,
I will someday rest contented in the
truth that you have been my Prince Charming,
Rescuing me from a life of mediocrity,
Loving me with a tenderness that so beautifully reflects our Lord,
And raising together, the three loveliest girls we've ever met.

And I am blessed that you chose me.

Happy Anniversary, Husband.
I love you.

You have my heart, my trust, my respect.
And I'll follow you anywhere, anytime, for any reason.
Or...
we can just stay right where we are.