Six Long Years

A lot can change in six years.  For example, six years ago, I was in band camp to start my senior year of high school.  I was applying to Jacksonville State University and preparing to start my collegial career in video game design.  I was mentally preparing to start my life on my own (with financial support, of course) living in a dorm and being on my own for the first time in my life.  In my senior year of high school, I was slacking and taking life easy, but at the same time, I was a little bit nervous about what was to come.  I hoped that my new-found relationship was going to last; I knew that he was special even that early in the relationship.  I had hope, but I knew the distance would be a strain.

So, fast forward to 2012.  I've unfortunately fell out of contact with many of the friends that I had during high school, with the exception of a small circle.  Styles have changed drastically -- for example, I've turned into a bit more of a girl than just a female.  I usually do my hair and makeup and I've strayed away from my usual attire of t-shirts and Converse every day.  I wear heels, even!  Interests have changed, somewhat...  But no matter what, through these six years, there is always a constant.  One thing never wavers.  One relationship to rule them all! (Sorry, I had to.)

Sure, things are not always happy.  We've had our fair share of fights.  They're usually over stupid things and we end up laughing about them later.  For every fight or tear shed, there are at least ten laughs and jokes to make up for them.  I'm finally starting to openly talk about my feelings with him, which is still difficult, but I'm making progress.  We've avoided several fights because I'm starting to discuss feelings as they arise rather than in retrospect.  What we have fought about has strengthened our relationship.

After six years, I find myself in nearly the same situation.  I'm in my senior year of college about to begin my student teaching.  Obviously, I'm taking my summer classes as easy as possible.  I want to keep my grades up because, as it is, I will graduate with honors and in an honor society.  I'm once more preparing to begin my life on my own -- financially and physically.  I'm nervous about what is to come, but unlike before, I'm not worried about my relationship falling apart.  I know that he will be there for me no matter what (or at least I hope) and he knows I will be there for him.

Like I told Zach on our actual anniversary:  "I look forward to becoming one of those cute old couples that you see on greeting cards."  So, here is to six years and hopefully at least sixty more!  (Yes, I hope to torture you for that long, babycakes. I love you.)  Unfortunately, this blog post is done nearly two weeks late, but as mentioned, due to school and nerdiness, it's been hard to find down-time to write a post.  Better late than never, right?