Firsts are pretty great but seconds are even better

first picture we ever took together - a couple weeks after we started dating

To me, firsts are really special.
With our first anniversary coming up in a few days, I've been thinking a lot about the firsts we have shared in all of the time we have been together.

And the firsts we've shared just in the last year...

Our first vacation together, the best getaway I have ever been on, our honeymoon. It was everything I imagined a honeymoon to be. The beautiful beach, that coconut crab chowder that was to die for, the jet skiing with my arms wrapped tightly around his waist, soaring through the St. Lucia trees zip lining, the tropical fruits and flowers we had both never seen before, the Tangled lantern that made it seemed like we were living a fairy tale, and my favorite of all, the late night walks on the beach with the man of my dreams, his hand in mine. In 10, 20, maybe even 30 years from now, I hope we go back there and experience it all over again.

Our first apartment together. After searching hopelessly around this town for weeks with the wedding day quickly approaching, we did so many walk-throughs, every one of which left us feeling completely disappointed. Then, when the two week mark hit, one opened up and for that brief 10 second walk through we did on our lunch hours, it was going to have to be "good enough". Despite the clutter everywhere in this apartment during our walk through, at least it didn't smell like smoke, pee, etc. As we slid the key in the door for the first time I was a little nervous what it might really look like even after people moved out. I couldn't remember anything about it but when we walk in it felt as if it was meant to be and well, this place has turned out perfect for us.

Our first holidays as a married couple. Buying our first Christmas tree (granted it was only 3 feet tall) and decorating our apartment for every other holiday. I'm pretty sure Valentines Day takes the cake for me. :)

Our first year of marriage in general. It has been special and I'll cherish every single memory we have made during it.

But while thinking about how great all of our "firsts" have been, what I've come to realize is that the second, third, and even fourth times are even better.
Like second kisses, second chances, the second vacation, and the second year of holidays. Even the second home we will make together someday.

So here's to seconds, my love.
Most of all, here's to a second year of marriage.
and a third
and a fourth...
May they be even better than the first. 


xo