Our families often joke that we have more weddings than Newt Gringrich- they just happen to be to the same person...

It's also interesting to see how people on the outside react to the evolution of our relationship recognition. While it's only been 7 years, looking back seems like light years of difference in the way people refer to us. Words like you "special friend" or "partner" have been replaced by "your husband." The major newspapers here in South Florida even reported on our wedding and published pictures since Anthony was running for office at the time.

All of this and the sky hasn't fallen! A year of marriage equality for us and no marriages were destroyed by our "insidious gay agenda bent on destroying traditional marriage." So sorry, Senator Ensign and Governor Sanford, you can't pin your problems on us!

People may debate the importance of marriage equality in our movement, but I will say it has meant a lot to me personally. Watching and being part of the changing view of gay relationships has been an illuminating journey. We've always known what we mean to each other, but seeing other recognize it definitely has an impact.

So Happy Anniversary, my love! I am lucky to have someone who challenges me, supports me, and makes me a better person. And I'm blessed that other people are beginning to recognize and celebrate that love as well.