John and I met in May, were engaged in September and married a year and one month later. Here we are, at right, on our wedding day. We thought it was very funny the way the wind tugged at my veil. Or maybe, more profoundly, we were amused by the fact that we had just gotten married. You know how it is during those rare instances when you're able to take a step out of the moment and watch it swirl up around you, realizing that what you've just said or done is irreversible and you've changed your life forever.

John is kind and compassionate. He wears his heart on his sleeve and shares his good countenance by way of his very pleasant and ever-present smile. John is also a dedicated and diligent worker, and his efforts are evident in everything he touches. I, on the other hand, hide my care for others with a detached sarcasm, and veil my inner editor with a self-confidence so well feigned that only my closest acquaintances know what really lies beneath. But I've got a passionate heart, and most everyone knows it, and somehow I'm always able to inspire the people in my life to either love me or hate me. I'm one of those black and white personalities. There are no gray areas with me.

Somehow John and my strengths and weaknesses compliment each other and enable us to face the world as a rather formidable force. We have an enviable life. We know that and are thankful for it.