One year to go: The Challenges

Hello,

Well Joanna and I are just 1 year away from saying "I do." We are looking forward to our wedding. I've learned that wedding planning can be excruciating but fun. A number of aspects have been taken care of.

We got a venue, DJ, photographer, a "mon-you... mon-you... mon-you" THE MENU! So I'm pretty content. At least this hasn't been a George Banks like episode where my fiance's dad acts like a total nut over the cost. It's actually been quite fun. Joanna's been having me as a part of the planning. I pretty much just "kibbitz." Our guest lists are finished too, so we don't have to worry about that.

I've learned that being our relationship isn't perfect, it does have it's bumps and bruises, but overall it's been a lot of fun.

I'm really excited about the prospect of marrying my best friend. Marriage will be a mountain to climb however, it's a challenge I am willing to undertake. I'm ready to be a good husband, loving father, and in the end, walk my daughter down the aisle, and give her away.

Oh trust me, as the dad and when I have a daughter who wants to get married. I'm going to have nice stringent rules he's going to have to follow.

1. You make her cry? I'll make you cry.

2. You want my permission to marry her? You better have a good explanation why.

3. You better have all your ducks in a row.

4. You will get married in a church.

5. You test me, I do have a cattle prod.

6. Jealousy in a relationship will get you nowhere with me. I hear anything about you not allowing her to talk to her guy or girl friends. Gimme your car keys and SIT DOWN... because I'm going to put the fear of god in you.

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Yeah, I'll be tough, but I know that I have to be good father. Bill Engvall stated it best: "If you have any plans about huggin' or kissin', word of warning? I have no problems going back to prison."

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Marriage is very difficult. It's a team effort. Sure there will be fun spots in our relationship and times where we get to take our kids out to eat to celebrate an A on a report card or an A on a test. It's work you know.

Do I feel ready to take on the challenge of being married?

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Still thinking about it, so hold on...

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I'm done thinking (LOL. That was just to tease you all. LOL.) and the answer is definitely yes. I found the woman in my life I really want. I'm very excited that I have a great wedding party selected. Basically, it's a solid A-team.

Anyway folks, I'm getting married soon. I know that all marriages are challenges and mountains to climb. But once you summit that mountain knowing that you are doing the right things in life, it makes your life that much easier.

I'm very proud to be marrying Joanna. I couldn't ask for anyone more special in my life.

Thank you and God bless,

Joshua