Have I told you?

Six years ago today you became my husband - my "better half" - and that's exactly what you are.  We've spoken on occasion about how you've "grown" since I became part of your life; but do you realize how much you've helped me?

You're the strength that I don't have anymore.

You're the stamina that I long for.

You helped pull me back out of my shell - back where I belong.

You've encouraged me to explore who I am as a woman - besides just a wife, mother, and housekeeper.

You've supported my decisions - even the ones I about which I was hesitant.

You've accepted me for who I am - even when I'm trying to figure out who exactly that is.

You've taken my diagnosis - made it our life - and made it a good life.  

You've been there for me and with me through the tough times - and through the good times.

You've been the strong shoulder I've cried on - and you were never stronger than when you were crying with me.

You've always put me first - even when I failed to reciprocate.

You've crossed the gap of socially expected gender roles to help in areas where I can no longer pull my full weight.  And you're even more of a man because of it. 

When I lived so far from my doctor (and was struggling with the local ones), you found a new job.  You left your family, your friends, your church.  Without any hesitation, you moved our family where we needed to be for my healthcare.

You ground me when I "push" to hard - either by gently taking over the project at hand, or reminding me why it's more important to take care of me than the inconsequential task.

You've seen me at my best and my worst - and not judged or criticized.

You've been such a fabulous role model to our boys - of strength, of compassion, of support, and of equality in a relationship.

You're my best friend - my soul mate.

You've quietly accepted the fact that our private lives - our trials and our pains - have become public domain because of the hundreds of people who read my email updates.

You've given me - our marriage - our children - our family - our life your 150%.

And you do it all without complaining.  I know you get tired - stressed - overwhelmed - and pulled in different directions.  But somehow you find the strength to keep going.

I love you.  

I respect you.  

I believe in you.

I appreciate you.

I don't know where I'd be without you.

And every day I thank God for you.

Happy Anniversary, Darling!