Thanks for finding courage to speak to me again after the debacle of our first meeting. Thanks for inviting me and taking me out that first time, 17 years ago. I remember painting those little shakers with you and laughing together as we watched patrons come and go having started and subsequently finished projects much larger and more complicated than ours in much shorter spans of time than it was taking us. Every minute of it was a pleasure, because I enjoyed your presence. I still enjoy your presence.
That night in Fazoli’s, remember how I told you that I just needed time? Thanks for waiting for me and for all the patience you’ve showered me with ever since. I feel as though I’m showered in patience every moment of our life together. And I’m so grateful for it. You make patience appear to effortless in the way you deal with me.
It was snowing heavily when we finally found ourselves in the parking lot of Fazoli’s after you’d given me enough time that the workers were cleaning up the restaurant around us. And all I could think was that I didn’t want the night to be over yet. I desperately wanted to be with you for more time. So what other activity would be so apparently appropriate in heavy snow than hiking Y Mountain? Obviously, I hail from the East where I was not afforded a relationship or even slight familiarity with mountains. So, it seemed a brilliant solution with which to rescue the evening from its expiration. When it became obvious that climbing the Y would be next to impossible, my mind raced to find a new salvation for our night.
Thanks for going along when I have absurdly fanciful ideas. Thanks for trusting my stubborn instincts. Thanks laughing at me and with me and for not being repulsed by my quirks. After 17 years, I imagine my quirks could become a bit or a lot annoying. Let it be a testament to your good nature and your sense of humor that you have never dealt with me with even a hint of irritation.
Oh boy, these 17 years have been the greatest adventure; the best chapter of my life. At some point (probably pretty soon) it will seem like the only chapter in my life and anything that came before you will seem the short prologue before the true story. I love the story we’ve created together. I am so grateful for our family and our amazing kids and our little green house. I’m so humbled that you committed to stay with me forever and that you’re staying true to that commitment even though I’m not exactly what you originally signed up for. You are amazing and I’m thankful for you every day. I love all of you quirks. They all make me smile. I’m just so in love with all of you. Thanks again for that first date and for the courage to give me a shot.
L
