To date, 2004 was my most stretching year. I don't discount the challenges of early marriage or young children at all, but my 22nd year, from start to finish, I felt as though I was punched in the gut over and over again and then watched closely to see what my reaction would be. And of course, how I responded to each punch would have a lasting effect on my life.

But almost exactly in the middle of that year, I was proposed this beautifully simple question. Required only a 'yes' or a 'no'. And although each answer would steer my life in two completely different directions, beyond the initial catching of my breath, it was an undeniable, un equivocal 'YES!'

I'm not a big fan of celebrating Valentines day, the one thing it has going for it is it's in February, and it's a welcome change from the mundaneness that winter brings. I would much rather celebrate more personalized 'love days' like September 26th when we started dating, June 12th when we got engaged and of course July 16th when we got married. Unfortunately all of those dates are in the summer, and celebrating each one could get a little ridiculous! I at least like to recognize each one when it comes around as being an important milestone in our partnership, when loving each other was a less complicated concept.