To My Husband

Tomorrow, Tom will turn 29. We will be busy on our birthday adventure tomorrow, so I wanted to take some time to write a tribute to the man who has changed my life.

I have had my share of bad relationships (but hasn't everyone). I wanted to find that one person that would make my world complete, and I didn't think I was ever going to find it. Then, I met Tom. I was actually dating a friend of his. One night, said friend was stopping by and asked if I minded that Tommy St. Angelo stop by too. I said no, and since I was living with my sister at the time, thought maybe they could hang out. Well, they showed up, and Tom and my sister sat awkwardly on a love seat. It wasn't looking like a love connection. Looking back, it really was hilarious. They both looked so uncomfortable. They still joke about it today. Then, 4th of July came and I was at a party with said friend. Lo and behold, so was Tom. We spent the entire evening debating and having great conversation. Both of us had a bit too much to drink and the friend had to drive us home. Tom sat in the back of my little red Cavalier, and I was in the passenger seat. When I've had a bit to drink, I think that I can have my own personal concert with the radio. So, I started belting out the song, and Tom said, "Is that an angel up there singin'?" (Insert slight southern accent having just moved from N. Carolina). I smiled on the inside for the first time in a long time.

A few days later, I decided that I wanted to go out with Tom. I got up enough courage (translation: drank 5 beers) and went to his house. I knocked on the door and asked him if he had plans later and if he wanted to grab a few beers. He accepted....the rest is history.

Well, it wasn't always easy. Everyone has their troubles when they are first dating - you have to work out all the wrinkles. In June we were married. It was the happiest day of my life. I didn't know it was possible to have someone love me so much, and for me to love them equally in return. We are a team. He saved me. I was struggling with depression and drinking. I hated myself and my life. He changed all that.

To most people, Tom is quiet, shy, and laid back. To me, he is hilarious, intelligent, and well spoken. I don't think people knew what to make of us when we were first dating. How could this work? We are so different. But we're not. He makes me laugh. I find myself giggling like a little kid in bed when we are just talking. I am able to be myself - completely. He doesn't judge me, but rather gives his honest opinion. I know he will always tell me the truth. He helps me be a better person - a stronger person. I don't let people walk on me anymore - well, at least not as much as I used to. I believe in who I am and what I have to offer people. All because of him.

I am so proud of my husband. He is thoughtful and careful. He plans. He works hard. He researches. He has a goofy side (that I think I see more than anyone). I sometimes say he is like having a good girlfriend for a roommate. He indulges my whims and gives me advice. He is an amazing father to his daughter, and it lets me geta glimpse into what he will be like with our kids. Taryn loves her dad, and he loves her so much. I don't know how he deals with her being so far away, but he manages to be a great dad even when she is hundreds of miles away - when my dad couldn't do it living in the same town. Taryn is a lucky girl to have Tom for her daddy.

I love him more everyday, and even though he hates his birthday, I celebrate it. It gives me the chance to celebrate him and the person that he is.

I love you, Tom. Happy Birthday!