Celebrating One Year of Marriage: 11 Unforgettable Superlatives from Our First Year Together

Wedding Photography: Michelle Lindsay Photography

Exactly one year ago today, at this very moment, I was immersed in the excitement of our wedding day. The air buzzed with anticipation as I began my hair and makeup preparations at our venue, ready for what would become one of the most significant days of our lives. It truly feels surreal to think that twelve months have already flown by since that beautiful cherry blossom wedding.

Many people often warn that the first year of marriage is the most challenging. While this past year has undeniably been packed with incredible milestones and significant life changes – from Connor’s momentous graduation from medical school to our exciting relocation to Chicago, among countless other adventures – I honestly don’t resonate with that sentiment. On the contrary, I feel a profound sense of grounding and contentment, more settled in my life and our relationship than ever before.

Perhaps it’s due to the deep roots of our relationship, having known each other for a substantial period (this may be our first wedding anniversary, but it marks our eleventh year together as a couple), or maybe a blend of many other factors. Regardless, it has been an exceptionally exhilarating and profoundly memorable year, shaping us in countless positive ways and strengthening the foundation of our bond.

To commemorate this special milestone and reflect on the journey, I thought it would be a delightful and insightful exercise to compile a list of superlatives, encapsulating the essence of our first year of married life. The most enjoyable aspect of this idea was the process itself: I provided Connor with the categories, and we each independently wrote down our answers. We didn’t share our responses until both lists were complete, leading to a fun reveal at the end. As it turns out, there was a surprising amount of overlap in our answers, highlighting just how in sync we are, even when we think we’re being completely independent!

Biggest Milestone

Me: Our move to Chicago. This involved packing up our entire life, saying goodbye to the familiarity of Washington D.C., and embracing a completely new chapter. It felt like a monumental undertaking, both logistically and emotionally, but it truly marked the beginning of our married life in our own space, in a vibrant new city. The anticipation of building a home and a new community together made it incredibly special.

Connor: Graduating from medical school and officially becoming a doctor. This achievement represented years of relentless hard work, dedication, and sacrifice. The feeling of finally earning the title “Dr. King” is still incredibly surreal, even after saying it countless times. It signifies not just a personal accomplishment, but also the culmination of a long-held dream, and it set the stage for our new life together.

Hardest Challenge

Me: Starting over in a brand new city. After spending more than two decades in the D.C. area, moving to Chicago forced both of us far outside our comfort zones. Building new friendships, navigating an unfamiliar urban landscape, and adjusting to life without immediate family nearby has certainly presented its challenges. Yet, despite these hurdles, it has been an incredibly rewarding and growth-filled experience. I’ve truly fallen in love with this city and the independence it has fostered in us.

Connor: Decompressing from the intense demands of work. The transition from being a medical student to a full-fledged resident felt like being thrown into the deep end of a pool. My mind is constantly occupied, often checking in on patients even when I’m not physically at the hospital. This year, I’ve made a conscious effort to improve my ability to truly step away, decompress, and unwind, recognizing the importance of maintaining mental well-being for myself and for our relationship.

Most Memorable Trip

Me: Without a doubt, our honeymoon to the Okavango Delta in Botswana. The sheer beauty of the landscape, the untamed nature, and the incredible wildlife were beyond stunning; words and photos simply cannot capture its essence. That very first day on safari was a truly surreal, awe-inspiring, and deeply humbling experience, witnessing animals in their natural habitat in such a profound way.

Connor: Our entire safari honeymoon trip stands out. Specifically, the unforgettable day we spent tracking three majestic lions across miles and miles of the vast Okavango Delta. The immense scale and remote beauty of the delta were breathtaking. There’s nothing quite like observing these incredible animals in the wild and experiencing the unique sensation of feeling like you are the unexpected attraction—or perhaps, even the next potential meal!

Best Bite

Me: The ‘go takara’ roll at Momotaro Chicago. This was not just a sushi roll, but a culinary masterpiece consisting of six meticulously crafted pieces, each offering a distinct and surprising flavor profile. Every bite was an adventure, a perfect blend of textures and tastes. I could have easily enjoyed five more of those – it was that phenomenal.

Connor: Definitely that incredible roll at Momotaro. It’s rare for a dish to leave such a lasting impression, but the artistry and unexpected flavors in each piece made it truly unforgettable. It was a perfect example of how a simple meal can become a memorable experience when shared with the right person.

Favorite Wedding Photo

Connor: Our wedding day was a beautiful whirlwind, a blur of joyous emotions and cherished moments. This particular photograph, capturing us during our first dance, stands out as incredibly special. Even though every eye in the room was on us, in that moment, it felt like it was just the two of us, completely lost in each other. As sentimental as it may sound, this photo perfectly encapsulates how she makes me feel – as if we’re the only two people in the most crowded room.

Me: While certainly not the most “flattering” in a traditional sense, this photo, capturing a moment of pure, unadulterated joy, perfectly sums up the entire wedding day for me. It’s an honest portrayal of love, infectious laughter, and genuine happiness radiating from both of us. It embodies the true spirit of our celebration and reminds me of the pure elation of that moment.

Inspiring Read

Connor: When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi. This book resonated deeply with me, particularly given my profession. It’s a profound exploration of life, death, and what makes life meaningful, written by a neurosurgeon facing his own mortality. There is so much within its pages that I can relate to, and it serves as a powerful, daily reminder to cherish good health, appreciate every moment, and prioritize family above all else.

Me: When Breath Becomes Air. I found this book so incredibly compelling and emotionally powerful that I read the entire thing in one sitting. It’s a testament to the human spirit and the fragility of life, offering a unique perspective on what it means to live fully. The raw honesty and profound insights left a lasting impact on me, reinforcing the importance of living each day with intention.

Most Valuable Lesson

Me: Learning to trust my instincts and discovering the power of saying “no.” In a busy world, it’s easy to get caught up in commitments and external pressures. This year, I’ve learned the invaluable lesson of listening to my inner voice, setting healthy boundaries, and prioritizing my well-being and our relationship. It’s about being true to myself and protecting our shared time and energy.

Connor: The most valuable lesson I’ve learned is not to take anything for granted. This insight has been amplified by my experiences in medicine, where I witness the fragility of life daily. It translates into appreciating the simple moments, acknowledging the health we enjoy, and cherishing the love and support of my family. Every day is a gift, and this lesson has taught me to live with greater gratitude and presence.

Guilty-Pleasure Purchase

Me: Our espresso machine. I absolutely adore this appliance! A part of me initially questioned its practicality for just two people who consume a significant amount of coffee, but in truth, I use it more regularly than almost any other appliance in our kitchen. As someone who has genuinely dreamed of owning an espresso machine since I was a three-year-old (no exaggeration!), it has been an investment that is incredibly well worth every single penny, bringing daily joy and delicious brews.

Connor: The espresso machine, hands down! It has undeniably transformed me into a bit of a coffee snob, but the sheer delight of fresh espresso and perfectly frothed homemade cappuccinos each morning is absolutely incredible. It’s a small luxury that has significantly elevated our daily routine and is a testament to the joy of a perfect cup.

Scariest Moment

Me: This moment will forever be etched in my memory: when we were on our honeymoon in the Okavango Delta, and our safari vehicle was charged and ultimately flipped by an elephant. I truly believe that if Connor hadn’t remained as remarkably level-headed and calm as he was during that terrifying encounter (not to mention his medical training, which was unexpectedly relevant!), things could have turned out drastically differently. To this day, I get chills and goosebumps just thinking about that moment, and I constantly marvel at how incredibly lucky we were to emerge completely unharmed.

Connor: The absolute scariest moment was the realization that we were being charged by that elephant, and there was no way we could get our vehicle away in time. It was an intense, heart-stopping instant where survival instincts kicked in. I am still utterly amazed and profoundly grateful that we were as fortunate as we were, escaping such a dangerous situation without injury. It was a stark reminder of the power of nature and the preciousness of life.

Favorite Chicago Spot

Connor: This isn’t an easy choice, as Chicago offers so much, but I truly love the panoramic view of downtown Chicago from the Adler Planetarium. The walk along the lakefront to get there is always enjoyable and scenic, offering breathtaking perspectives of the city skyline. I can’t wait for warmer weather to fully enjoy more walks and take in that iconic vista.

Me: My current favorite spot in Chicago changes regularly, as there are always new gems to discover, but right now, it’s this wonderfully funky coffee shop in our neighborhood called Sawada Coffee. The ambiance is unique, with a blend of industrial chic and cozy comfort, making it a perfect place for people-watching or a productive work-from-home day.

They serve these absolutely incredible military lattes, a unique concoction made with matcha tea, rich espresso, a hint of vanilla syrup, and a dusting of cocoa powder. They are dangerously addictive (and admittedly, not very wallet-friendly!). But beyond the delicious drinks, the space itself offers a fantastic atmosphere for relaxation, inspiration, and connecting with the city’s vibrant energy.

Thing I’m Most Looking Forward To

Me: Summer! Chicago summers are legendary for a reason – they are bursting with life, energy, and countless activities. There’s always so much happening all over the city, from festivals to outdoor concerts and delicious food markets. Despite the fact that it snowed just 24 hours ago, I feel incredibly fortunate that our first winter in Chicago was remarkably mild and largely uneventful. It was a gentle introduction to life here, making me even more excited for the lively summer months ahead.

Connor: I am eagerly anticipating my upcoming vacation! I have one more week of much-needed time off before I dive into my second year of residency, which is known to be the hardest year of orthopaedic training. Laura and I have planned a short, local trip to a cozy B&B in Michigan for a relaxing weekend. It will be wonderful to get away, decompress, and explore new areas of the Midwest together before the intensity of the next phase of my medical career begins.

Reflecting on our first year of marriage through these superlatives has been a truly heartwarming experience. It’s clear that while we’ve faced new challenges and celebrated significant individual achievements, our journey together has been characterized by mutual support, shared adventures, and an ever-deepening love. This year has not only proven that the “hardest first year” adage doesn’t apply to us, but it has also affirmed our strong foundation, built over more than a decade together. We are so excited for what the future holds, embracing every new chapter with open hearts and a strengthened bond.