2012

As I looked back over this year, I realized there was so much physically and emotionally packed into one year. I cannot believe that we have succeeded and failed so much in one year.

This year, you were introduced to Mr. and Mrs. Superman, a half-Bean half-Apple whole-hearted Army couple, who were under the impression that Superman would be shipped off this year – our first year of marriage -- to AFG.  

We were oh so ready. We had a pre-deployment, a whole battle book, and a whole post-deployment plan. We worked our tails off – so hard in fact that I was promoted at work. And Superman was too.

The Army sure had its plans for us. But God's plans were greater. And two weeks before D-day, Superman's orders were reversed. We found ourselves throwing away the battle book and fast forwarding our one year out post-deployment plans to right that second. Next thing you know, we're living together for the first time. 

Talk about adjustment. Talk about loving every minute.

There was more Apple than Army this year. In some ways, that was a huge sigh of relief. We learned the importance of taking risks. The importance of chasing our dreams at any cost. But our accomplishments and successes did come at a cost. We sacrificed.

We celebrated our one-year anniversary knowing that everything we did, we did it together. I couldn't have asked for a better life, love, and business partner.

There's something to be said about unconditional love. I just can't find the words yet.

Superman left on a mini-deployment that seems a total drag now, but I have to trust that it will lead to greater things

We also raised a fur baby, who came out alright.

So goodbye 2011. You were difficult and rewarding. I'm glad Superman was around to hold my hand through. Here's hoping 2012 will be smoother sailing.

The stakes are high

The water's rough

But this love is ours.