Today marks the start of a new era. As of today, Adam and I have been together for half of our lives. Every day from here on out will mean that we have spent more of our life together than apart. Just saying that makes me feel old–when I think about couples who have been together for half of their lives, I think of people who are at least in their 50’s, not late 20’s–but it also leaves me feeling excited for the years and decades we have ahead of us.

I wouldn’t trade these past 14 years of friendship, love, and adventure for anything. Growing from teenagers to husband and wife to parents, we’ve been through so much together. We’ve been each other’s study partners preparing for exams, travel companions on road trips and abroad, roommates in our first apartments, and number one supporters as we started our careers and took risks to follow our dreams. We’ve shared cups of hot chocolate, secrets, and germs. We’ve seen each other at our best and at our worst, through good times and bad. We’ve been at each other’s side through frightening medical emergencies and the joyous birthday of our son. We’ve laughed, we’ve cried, we’ve fought. We’ve walked the beach, stood on mountains, and snuggled on the couch together. Nothing could replace what we’ve got.

Fourteen years ago I never would have imagined that saying “yes” to a homecoming date would have brought me to this point. I’m incredibly lucky to have found my best friend and love so early. Here’s to many more years with my partner in parenthood, ally in conflict, accomplice in mischief, and comrade in adventure.