October 19th

Today is our anniversary.

October 19, 2001: Our first date

Joe & I met at work back in Sept '01. I thought he was cute and funny, so I did what every other teenager with a crush would do; I switched my schedule to match his, so we'd have the chance to get to know each other at work AND be able to hang out after work. My family was completely against it because I went from working 9-5 Mon-Fri, to 1-9pm Mon-Fri. They were just bummed because I would be working every night and I would miss out on dinners, parties, get togethers and they'd just never see me. But little did they know, my plan worked and he finally asked me out!

He took me on what he called a "group date." However it wasn't a group date, it was us and all his guy friends. I was the only girl. Kind of awkward. (Finding out years later, it was a test. To see if I got along with the crew and if the crew got along with me. Haha, Joe had a plan of his own!) Well obviously I passed because we started dating casually after that. Joe was also dating another girl at this same time - jerk... - but in December 2001, we made our relationship exclusive.

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October 19, 2005: Our wedding

It was probably the best day ever! We waited for so long for that special day. Most of you know Joe and I were engaged briefly in 2003, but called it off because we both felt we were rushing into it. But after 2 years of working hard together and preparing for our future, Joe proposed again on January 1, 2005. And of course January 2nd I was looking at reception centers and dates. We both decided on Oct 19th. We already celebrated that anniversary of our first date, by going back to the same restaurant and reminiscing, why not expand the celebration?

We are lucky enough to share 2 of the most important events on the same day.

Our wedding was beautiful and I remember like it was yesterday. The roses were perfect, my best friends were there and Nancy made sure I was happy and content. I really owe that whole day to Nancy. She put together the wedding of my dreams and I will forever be grateful.

Of course I cried the whole way down the isle. But I was smiling from ear to ear on the way back. We had a small ceremony, only immediate family and close friends. I wish EVERYONE could have been there, but my father-in-law didn't want the guest list above a certain point. But everyone who mattered showed up to our reception and shared in our joy. So many people came from out off town just for us. I will always remember them and the love they showed us.

For those who couldn't make it, we completely understood. It was our fault for planning a wedding on a Wednesday.

But the date was important to us.

I'm going to watch our wedding video today. Unfortunately Joe is working and will have to go to school tonight, but we got to spend the entire day together yesterday. We love our Sundays together.

Happy Anniversary Joe!

Both for our first date and our wedding.

2 events I will never forget.

Thank you to all family and friends that continue to support and love us both. We went through such a rough time when we first started dating. But for those we stuck with us, we continue to appreciate all that support.

Today is the best day.