In June of 1997 I met my husband.
The summer was just beginning and I was ready to like, really start my life (like only a 17-year-old can.) I had just graduated from high school and I was aching.to.escape.the.nest, throw my Dixie Chicks CD (probably purchased through the Columbia House mail-for-it CD club) into the detachable-face CD player in my 1986 Toyota Carolla and search for wide-open spaces…
But then I met a guy.
He was reserved and cute.
I liked his clothes and his hair.
And HIM.
He loved his family, his dog, and his Jeep. (In that order.)
He didn’t need to be the center of attention, instead, he just stood, resolutely… comfortable in his own skin.
I remember thinking, “There’s just something about him…”
Fast forward a couple of decades and some change later and I still smile and say, “… there’s just something about him…”
…and, those wide open spaces? We ended up traveling them together.
We grew up together.
::
My Craig, oh my Craig…
He’s patient and kind, loyal and true.
He can FIX ANYTHING…
He’s kind-hearted and no joke.
He’s a GOOD man.
He’s definitely the kind of man that our girls are forever going to measure partners against. God help them.
There’s just something about him.
He’s modest and calm.
He’s taught me to not hold grudges and to s-l-o-w my roll.
And to save my money.
He laughs at my jokes and tells me when I’ve gone to far (lovingly).
He is a MASTER on the charcoal grill and is totally ok with our forever-revolving door welcoming in foster pups.
He loves.
He tolerates. (lol)
He is in it with me.
And he always has been.
He doesn’t shrink or shirk, he handles and makes it work.
He has grown in so many ways and Craig — I’m so proud of you.
You have stood next to me cheering me on…
…and behind me, holding me up.
Craig, on the day of your birth I can’t help but sigh and say, you are the gift.
Your love, your presence, your support, your perspective…
…it means everything to me.
You’re a man of integrity and goodness and I’m just so honored to be your wife.
There’s just something about you…
There’s no one happier that you were born. (Except for your Mom. Because, she’s your Mom. And I’m so grateful for her, too.)
I love you with all of my heart and I wish you the happiest of birthdays.
I love you.
Me.
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