Well, Josiah and I celebrated our first wedding anniversary on Monday, June 23. It was so fun to be able to reflect on so many good memories and the covenant we have made with each other. The first year has of course been challenging at times but well worth the fight (not against each other though )

We decided some of our favorite things and highlights of the past year were our Sunday’s that we spent together, our trips to Cairns with each other, hanging out at the Riverway, Christmas-time, and basically getting to know each other more and more each day. We’ve realized that the other has so much to offer and often compliments ourself so well, bringing out the best in each other. I am biased, but we are a pretty great couple! Josiah continues to ask God what His best is for our lives and reflects the heart of God so many times by loving me unconditionally. I stop so many times and think "How can he be so patient and love me so much when I can be so difficult?" which really directs my thoughts to "Wow, God, you love me even more even in the times I’m really difficult." I have been blessed beyond belief.

To celebrate we had the day off and went and saw Prince Caspian . On our very first date we saw The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe and then on our honeymoon we listened to all of the Chronicles of Narnia on audiobook, so thank you very much C.S. Lewis! We’ve enjoyed the times we’ve spent together listening to the stories.

Afterwards we went to our favorite restaurant, Benny’s (an Asian cuisine) and exchanged cards and gifts. All I can say is great minds think alike!! Josiah printed off over 180 pictures of our past year and scrap-booking materials for us to make a memory book together, while I had ordered a collection of pictures made into a small book for our first anniversary. We just laughed together about it.

You know that cake tradition where you freeze the cake and then eat it on your first anniversary? Well, considering we couldn’t get our cake past the Australian customs, Josiah made one and we were content with that!

Thank you once again to everyone who is such a big part of our lives through just being part of the family, friends, prayer support and financial support. We appreciate it!

Much love,

The Ritners