Stop tsking your teeth, sighing, or doing whatever else you do when annoyed. I know you didn’t ask for this birthday letter, but here it is anyway. This is a big birthday for you and worthy of every form of recognition.
I will not share with my readers how young you are this August. You taught me ladies don’t reveal their ages. But you also posted your age on Instagram this year. We’ve been in each other’s lives for almost 20 years, and I still don’t have you figured out.
It feels good to celebrate this moment with you.
Almost every morning, I write your name first on my gratitude list. I am grateful for every meal you make, drop-off at the campus, conversation we share, and pick-up of the children. The list could go on for pages, but I want you to know I appreciate the daily tasks that keep our family together.
I followed you to Mexico to honor your mother’s legacy and make up for the lost time with your dad.
You followed me to Antigua for a job to help repatch our finances after two years of inconsistent income. Two weeks on the island, and you wanted to return Stateside and move in with my parents.
But, you stayed.
I am grateful for your willingness and desire to support me.
Who knows where we would be today if we never met at UIC? I don’t like to think about a life without you.
I wanted to throw you a huge party this year with every bell, whistle, and steel band available on the island. It didn’t happen, but the alternative surprise worked out well. When I revealed my plans, your smile revealed joy.
Thank you for putting up with my foolishness. Last Sunday, I woke you at 4:30 AM to drop me off at the beach for a solo triathlon. You climbed out of bed, showered, and came without a fight.
At 5 AM, you sat on a beach chair and watched me swim 1500 meters. I know you wanted to be in bed, but your love for me wouldn’t let you stay home. When I emerged from the water and realized I had forgotten a towel, you dried my ears with your sweater.
Your brief touch energized me to continue with the bike and run.
When I arrived home, you prepared a special breakfast with every anti-inflammatory ingredient we had available. You showed your love through another one of your five-star-worthy meals.
I love you, Gabi, on this special birthday and every day we have together. Why do I love you?
Here are ten among many reasons:
1. You’re intelligent
2. You’re beautiful
3. You’re kind
4. Because of the first three, we got the next three...
5. Vizuri
6. Emery
7. Mkazo
8. The homemade meals stirred with lots of love and some frustration in the kitchen:)
9. Our simple conversations in the car
10. Your attention to details
This letter could go on for pages, but I know you want it to stop. You don’t enjoy public affection.
Happy Birthday, love.
I love you,
Vernon
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