My lover is mine and I am his; Song of Solomon 2:16

13 years ago today at 1:34 pm I was pronounced the wife of my best friend! I am still amazed to this day how God brought us together! It seems like yesterday, yet it seems like we've been together forever! I remember being alone thinking I would never marry and finally becoming O.K. with that! Saying to God "If I'm single till I'm 50 or for the rest of my life - your picking the next one!" Enter Steven John Vander Helm! Right from the beginning I could sense something different about him and us. It was natural, never forced! It was comfortable in a good way, and he had the most beautiful blue eyes! I remember going to see "A River runs through it" with Kam and our friend Jamie and thinking "Brad Pitt has nothing on Steve"! Ah..... true love!

Steve is my calming force! He is my best friend; the one I desire to be with more then anyone (we just don't get enough time alone these days!) He is the best father a child could ask for! He is supportive and encouraging, always wanting whats best for me and our family! He is fun and funny! He's owned the same sweat shirt for close to 20 years and still wears it occasionally!

There are times I take him and us for granted, then something happens and I realize the treasure I've been given! In the words of Tom Cruise (even though I don't like TC) Steve Completes me! And isn't that how it should be?! We fit together like God planned! He knew who would be best for me, and for once I put it in His hands and how come I'm still amazed and surprised by it?!!! I don't know but I am forever grateful! If you haven't read the story of our wedding day happenings go here.

I think this song by Allison Krauss say it all for me about my husband, friend, lover and spiritual leader of our home! Steve I thank God everyday for bringing us together! I see his grace so clearly in this undeserved blessing! I love you so much! I look so forward to however many years God gives us together!! HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!!!!!!!