September 29, 2007 . Galena, Illinois

Time really does fly when you're having fun.

In some ways, it seems we've been married our entire lives, and in others, I can't BELIEVE how quickly we've gotten to this point, together for more than seven years and about to start our fourth year of marriage.

September 29, 2008 (courtesy of Megan Clausen Photography)

It's funny. You walk down the aisle thinking you know this person better than anyone else in the world, and probably rightfully so. But I love that with each anniversary that passes, we each continue to learn more and more about the other, appreciate each other deeply, and allow each other to continue to grow into the people we are ultimately meant to be.

October 2009 . Minneapolis

Every year has proven sweeter than the previous, as we've hit a stride while navigating this crazy thing called life. In a mere three years, we've made our share of major decisions together that have impacted the direction our life together has taken, and we are keenly aware of many impending decisions and directions to be made in the future.

August 2010 . Atlanta, Georgia

For right now though, at this moment, life is quite sweet and we are blissfully content.

I am very grateful.

What's more, I am very blessed.

Happy anniversary, Mr. Smith.

Here's to many more years of bellyache laughter, toasting our glasses, dancing to vinyl, yelling the Iowa fight song, bossing the other around, great times with amazing family and friends, daydreaming about what we'd spend our lottery winnings on, late night drive-thru binge eating, and of course, less-than-legal joy rides in that sweet convertible. Looking forward to all that comes next…

XOXO,

Me.