Five years ago today we had a blizzard. Four years ago it was measurable snow… same thing for three and two years ago. Last year about this time, I took this picture:

Blizzard 2012

Why do I keep track of this? Simple. Five years ago today is the day that I married the DW. For several reasons we wanted a December wedding even though we were well aware of the risk of what Mother Nature can throw at you in Iowa in December. I remember the first few flakes falling as we walked from the chapel we were married in to the reception area. Our caterer meet us at the door of the ballroom – prepared to move dinner up by an hour so our guests could be home before the worst of the storm settled in.

Blizzard 2008

Every year since that day, it seems we’ve had some sort of winter weather event on or very close to the 20th of December. It’s gotten to the point that our anniversary wishes now sound like “Happy Anniversary! How much snow this year?” Maybe I should take it as some sort of sign or warning… or maybe everyone who always wants a white Christmas should be sending the DW a little gift in appreciation of the last 5 years… or maybe we’re due to break the streak next year.

And in case you’re not familiar with the weather in Iowa today… just let me say this: it took me 30 minutes this morning to warm the car and peel 1/4 inch of ice off the windshield before sliding to work this morning. Plus, they’re now calling for several inches of snow arriving tomorrow… Happy Anniversary, Dear!