To My Dearly Beloved Husband

When we met, I wasn't looking for a romantic relationship. I certainly wasn't looking for a husband. In fact, I wasn't even looking for a boyfriend. I was looking for a friend. You fit that bill perfectly.

We met in an interesting way, with me finding out all the pertinent information right away. We quickly became friends, as we found out that smoking was not the only thing we had in common. Soon, we became lovers. When you brought me a full Thanksgiving meal while I was in the hospital, I knew I was in love with you. Of course, there were other things, but let's get real. It's all about the food with me.

You were the nicest guy I had ever met. You understood me like no one else had ever done. You were willing to love me, even though I was a horrible housekeeper. You went out and bought a Janis Joplin CD after I told you she was my favorite singer. Then, you went about changing my life so that her songs no longer held meaning for me. You took me as I was and didn't ask me to change. You made me laugh. You let me tell you the same stories 50 thousand times, without complaint.

Then, you asked me to marry you. Two weeks later, we found out I was pregnant. I knew you didn't want children, yet. But, instead of being upset about it, you took it in stride and supported me, all the way. You dealt with my extreme morning sickness like you had always been dealing with it. You did whatever you could to take care of me. Then, you married me.

12 years ago, we stood in front of a woman that neither of us could understand. We agreed to who knows what, in order to spend the rest of our lives together. The past 12 years have not always been easy. But, they have always been worth the struggle.

You are an amazing man. Thank you for being my best friend. I love you. Happy Anniversary!