Ten Years Ago

Ten Years Ago I was smooching this handsome man as the new Mrs. Seth Clayton.  Seth asked me out on our first date on April 12, 2000.  He asked me to marry him on September 9, 2000.  We were married in the Birmingham Temple on November 11, 2000.  I give this time line because, Whew... that was quick and we really didn't know, for 100% guarantee, that we weren't marrying a crazy person! 

  I like to call it the interview process.  As we started our dating process, Seth offered to help me with a budget.  Managing money was not my strong point at the time.  So, Seth knew all about my finances before he asked me to marry him.  Sneaky little guy, huh!  Then he asked me to come over one Saturday and help him work in the yard.  He later told me he wanted to see if I was a hard worker.  Well, I did a lot of work in the yard growing up, so I nailed that test!  He asked me every question you could imagine about life, children, career...  It was very important to him that I stay home with our children.  We have had to be very thrifty at times, but he has made that possible.  And through this "interviewing" process, I learned so much about the kind of man he was. 

As I was dating Seth, I just remember thinking this is the easiest, most comfortable relationship I have ever had.  
Here we are ten years later!


I love his patience.
I love his kindness and gentleness.
I love the kind of father he is to our children.
I love his work ethic.
I love how safe he makes me feel.
I love his commitment to the gospel of Jesus Christ.
I love that he is a spiritual leader to our family.
I love how he says, "settle down little lady," when I get flusttered.
I love when I answer the phone and he says, "hello wonderful."
I love how he respects me.
I love how he likes to go fast on a dirtbike!
I love how protective he is of us.
I love how he tries to make each day a good day.
I love his positive attitude.
I love how he kisses me hello and goodbye.
I love how he tells the children, "the first kiss goes to Mom."
I love how he still holds my hand.
I love how he is not a critical person.
I love how he brings me my favorite cookies at the end of a bad day.
I love how he lets me sleep in on Saturdays.
I love this Man.

Happy Anniversary!