Thirty-six years ago ...

my gift of patience, love, care, understanding, laughter, warm feet, and good genes to make gorgeous little people was born. Happy Birthday Doug!

A friend of mine once said that her husband wasn't Mr. Right, but Mr. Right-for-me. I like that and the same can be said for Doug. Doug and I compliment each other well. He makes me laugh like very few people can.

He takes the time to read with the kids so much more than I do. I do other things with the kids, but this is a place where Doug has stepped up to increase their love of reading, their imagination and love of learning (I bet Doug didn't even know he was doing all these things in the half hour he spends most days reading to them).

Doug is still happy to throw Tess up on his shoulders when she says, "teas daddy". Even though he might say his back hurts from it, he'll do it again and again.

Doug's relationship with his kids has grown so much lately, they know they can depend on him and go to him for any help. He's my equal in life. They love their daddy.

After 13 years, this man still makes my heart beat a little faster (the dude will climb anything)...

and in other ways too....

I love our life (bumps and all) and couldn't have chosen a better man for me to marry. He'll fish with my dad, loves hockey, and still loves to spend time with me. He appreciates how hard I work for our family and the role I play being home with the kids and tells me often. He never complains about what I do or don't do in the home each day, or what meal is put in front of him. He is Mr. Right-For-Me.

Here's to your 36th and too all those still to come.

LOVE YA BABE!