Sand Castles — adayinmycloset

You know me so well, love. So much so that you wanted to surprise me with a photo shoot for my blog, but still gave me a two-day notice so that I could pull my looks together the way I would like. Thank you. The suits I assumed you packed for nights on the town, you actually planned to accompany me.

I didn't know the concept, location or who would be taking our pictures. Or so I thought. When we went downstairs, dressed to the nines, we were greeted by the first photographers who shot 31. I was already impressed, but after an hour or so on the road together, we stopped at the dilapidated Umm Al Quwain airfield two emirates away from Dubai. Because we live apart, significant effort has been spent to stay connected, many hours on planes flying to and fro. I wouldn't change it for the world, for your determination to nurture us is meaningful, and the symbolism is not lost on me.

In the middle of a nondescript desert, we stopped on the side of the road in another wardrobe, creating a juxtaposition of extravagance in the wilderness. Both born in a southern state in which the other came of age, the heat did not deter.

As sand brushed across remnants of fading henna, you placed upon my hand a bubblegum sapphire for the ages. I am stunned by your thoughtfulness and foresight, and now understand what it means for someone to study you. What an emotional transformation we have endured. I have a renewed peace with unanswered explanations in the rear view upon which I can reflect. My happiness is predicated on yours. And it is clear that my joy is your aim.

Our four-legged witnesses appearing during your dedication has to be a sign. Of what, I don't know. But if nothing else, that we must enjoy the spontaneity of life.

When we met, I smiled.

When our lives began diverging, I prayed.

When you staged your home for our virtual dates, I laughed.

When I realized you were everything I had been asking for, I sighed.

When you stayed despite my loss of hope, I surrendered.

When you told me all the reasons why you did not want to live without me, I melted.

When you knelt in the sand to offer a seat on your throne, I said yes.

I feel you in my bones and carry you in my spirit. In your presence, my heart sings, my mind races, and my soul erupts. I cherish all that you are and trust my entire being to your care.

Thank you for allowing God to lead your steps in pursuing a deeper relationship built upon a beautiful friendship. Thank you for your patience, because Lord knows you were given an overdose to love me. Thank you for respecting our parents' roles in our lives and involving them as part of this monumental decision.

You round my edges, cradle my doubts, and propel my ambitions. What a blessing it is to experience life through your eyes, by your side. I rest in the understanding that He chose you to choose me.

Your intentions never waver. So when the unexpected shadows our faith, I don't have to fear the unknown. Because I know that right there, in the middle of everything, there's you.

-Your Future Wife, Mrs. Castle

Dress: Ammo Heels: Charles & David Tuxedo Jacket: J. Crew Tuxedo Pant: Ralph Lauren Dress Shoes: Balmain

Photography: Best Photographer Dubai