FIMBY

Today is my husband's 36th birthday. Every day I am thankful that he is my best friend, partner, lover, co-parent, provider, sounding board, technical support, primary household researcher, fellow adventurer and pilgrim on this journey called life.

I am at a loss for words ("it's about time" he thinks) when I try to express all that Damien means to me. So, I'll share a little story from our morning to relate what a great man he is.

The only one in our family who was on-the-ball enough to get a card ready for Damien's birthday morning was our son Laurent. This is not surprising as Laurent adores Damien. On the card Laurent drew skateboards (the "boys" latest shared interest) and a birthday cake with a whack of candles. But the sweetest part was the sketch on the front of Laurent next to his Daddy with a heart in the middle, showing as Laurent described "the love going back and forth".

I think at this stage in our lives one of things I appreciate most about Damien is the love he has for our children. Not just a vague notion of wanting the best for them and a few bedtime kisses but everyday actions of building a shared life together. Damien has tailored his hobbies and interests so that he can pursue them with his family (no I'm not skateboarding, yet). He's always evaluating his life through the lens of "how does this build relationship with my kids?".

He often talks about staying fit and healthy (you're looking better now than when I met you babe!) so he can be active with our children in their teen years. So he and not some punk from the mall can be their friend, co-conspirator and fellow adventurer when they are starting to gain their independence. His concern for his relationship with the people most precious to me, my kiddos, endures my heart to him more each day.

I LOVE YOU Damien. I love my life with you - every single day. Happy Birthday!