Nine

Nine years ago, we weren't family. Nine years ago, we pledged to start a life together. That didn't come naturally. Or easily. It took me years and lots of tears to see I would have to give up part of myself to have an us. Once I got through that stage, I was afraid for what I could lose now that I was a part of us. Now that I've looked back, no one said, `Welcome to an easy life now that you're hitched.'
Nine years -- or 20 if you start counting when we first met -- you stood by me, accepted my flaws, gritted your teeth and stuck up for me. You let me be me. Thank you and happy anniversary, Sweetie.