Because of our appointment this afternoon I had to schedule my walk during my lunch time and it was a happy accident that I chose the time I did. They had been calling for really stormy weather and while I walked the sun was shining and it was very peaceful. The storm has since come in but I am choosing to believe it won't be a sign of things to come during our planning session.

Much thought has gone into this very simple task. It marks the beginning of our team effort to truly plan this event. I enter this task with caution though. It's so easy during times like this to get wrapped up in the planning and forget the very reason for the occasion in the first place. At the forefront of our minds is always the reason we are doing this. At the end of the day it isn't about the flowers, the centerpieces, who will play the music and the food. It's about the commitment we are making to each other and the true acknowledgement of our military life. Don't get me wrong here.. I love to plan a wedding! This time feels different though and as I took my walk today I started to reflect on what felt so different about it.

I soon realized that this vow renewal is and needs to be about my facing my biggest challenges in life and that without a doubt is living as a military wife. My commitment is not only to my husband but also to myself that I will never again forget the lessons I have learned along the way and will lean on them during times of trouble. I will wake up each day with my battle armor if necessary and never again neglect to put it on when I need it. Equally important is the commitment to my husband to always respect his need to serve his country and to stand with pride and as a strong woman when duty calls him away.

I've only been on this journey of self discovery for a few short weeks but have already learned so much that I crave answers now. Months ago I didn't even want to start asking myself the questions so I am calling that progress. I take great pleasure in taking this journey with my husband and the fact that we are BOTH working really hard to deal with the issues that have been in our lives for the last few years. The mere fact that he wanted to be with me today as the venue and other planning took place is absolute proof to me that he is as committed to this process as I am. I remember a post a while back when I wrote about my doubts and he is slowly helping them fall away.

Nothing too deep today because sometimes you just have to take a moment to take a breath and enjoy the fruits of your labor.

Lesson for today: I learned today that this renewal ceremony is more than just about the fluff. It's about the really important stuff that will serve us well as man and wife. I also learned that you can learn to trust again. Both parties just need to be willing to put in the work.

Wishing you hope, happiness and life!

Until next time,

Laura D.