I feel I must begin this post with the words, “If anyone ever told me…”

Because “if anyone ever told me” 8 years ago today that 8 years later I would be wondrously in love with 4 little boys who would come from the marriage of Audrey and Matthew… well, I probably wouldn’t have believed those “anyones” anyway.

8 years ago today, Audrey and Matthew were married on what would be the hottest day of the entire summer in Rhode Island.  But that didn’t matter.  The sky was blue.  The flowers were in bloom.  Music and laughter and joy was in the air.  People had come from far and near to share this special day, this special ceremony, this special couple, their lives and their future.

Their future would include, in 8 years, 4 children.  4 boys.  4 beautiful little blessings.

Today, I accompanied Audrey to her pool club with William (4), Alexander (3), Benjamin (2) and Henry (1).  I couldn’t stop looking at these little guys and thinking of the miracle of each of them.  In 8 years.

And it just so happens that Audrey’s pool club is the very same one that we belonged to when my kids were kids.  This photo is Audrey at age 6.

I don’t remember ever feeling as full of life… the full circle… as I do today on Audrey and Matthew’s anniversary.  The past, the present and the future is all wrapped up in this magnificent little circle, and I feel extraordinarily blessed to be a part of it.  I feel extraordinarily whole on this most special day.

I think this is why we have special days.  Special days of celebration.  These days give us reminiscences and recollections to embrace as we take a step toward more special days and more memories that have yet to be shaped.  These days bring the great, great joy.

Centuries ago, Martin Luther wrote, “There is no more lovely, friendly and charming relationship, communion or company than a good marriage.”  Audrey and Matthew are greatly blessed that these words describe their marriage… and I am going to add just a few more words… “and 4 precious little boys.”

I love you, all my little darlings.  HAPPY HAPPY HAPPY ANNIVERSARY, AUDREY & MATTHEW!!