one perfectly imperfect year...

It has been one year since Garrett and I started dating, and I can say with confidence that it has been the best year of my life. We've been friends for about 5 years, he's been my best guy-friend (if people still use that term) for about 3 years, and now he's been my incredible boyfriend for 1 year. It has been the perfect year. Why? Because it's been imperfect.
At this stage of the relationship, a common question we both get from different people is, "Well, have you guys had a fight?" At first, we didn't really know what to think about the question. When taken out of context, it almost sounds cynical. "Well, if you haven't had one yet, you will! And when you do, you'll see their true nature, and boy you better be prepared!" Insert evil laugh here.
The thing the I love about our relationship is that it's so imperfect that it's real. We started answering these people's questions with "while we've never had a "fight," per se, we've had deep discussions that has left the other person hurt or uneasy/unsure." Some topics have left us uneasy for weeks, but we still talk about it and probe at it -- seeking other's advice when necessary -- until we find a solution to the problem, and when we do, it's the best feeling in the world! Because from that point on, we know how to deal with that problem quickly and easily, with little/no feelings hurt, and if they are, a sincere apology and a kiss are all we need to be able to forgive and move on.
My definition of a perfect relationship: knowing that it is and will forever be imperfect, and knowing that those imperfections draw us closer to each other because they draw us closer to God. Knowing we are flawed, knowing that God is the foundation of our relationship, knowing how much we love, support, and find joy in each other; this is the imperfection that is perfection. The perfect relationship - one that is real.
I can say with confidence that I have the perfect relationship because it's real. Heck, I don't even wear make up around him! How much more real can it get? :)

Thank you, Garrett, for one perfectly imperfectly year. I love you so much, and I can't wait to experience many more years with you. :) Happy Anniversary!