It's Mr. Ladd's 35th birthday today! I'm beyond grateful that this guy was born, and that life brought us together 18 years ago. I love that we've had a head start on growing old together, and on his birthday here are 35 more reasons I'm thankful for him:
- He takes out the garbage and recycling, always, without being asked.
- He's so appreciative when I cook. A homemade dinner and brownies make him so happy, and he always cleans up if I cook.
- He trims the dogs' nails which gives me the heeby jeebs, and walks them when it's too hot for me.
- He takes such pride in his work, and his home and never does anything halfway.
- He has been willing to be so vulnerable to go through this crazy journey of adoption with me.
- His eyes light up over animals and tear up over sensitive stories.
- He makes me smile when I'm cranky, and makes me get over myself when I need to.
- He is crazy smart, and I sometimes marvel at how his brain works.
- He has always been so unbelievably supportive in practical ways and in spirit of my career and choices.
- He has an insatiable curiosity for how things work, and will figure it out if he doesn't know how to do something.
- He's practical and sensible in all the areas I'm impractical and dreamy.
- He loves his family with a fierce loyalty.
- He's quiet until he has something good to say.
- He's a nerd at heart but sure doesn't look like one (ahem, biceps)
- He takes care of the pool like a chemist.
- He loves football and is more than content to spend a Sunday afternoon on the couch with me.
- He makes us breakfast every single weekend.
- He's an adventurous eater and will try anything.
- He's opinionated about things that matter, but always open minded.
- He values my opinion, and treats me as a complete equal.
- He washes both of our cars and makes sure the oil is changed and the tires are rotated.
- He's organized and routined in a way that I miss when he's gone.
- He is generous and always willing to help.
- He is almost always the first one to admit he was wrong and apologize.
- He loves maps. Like really loves maps, so we usually get where we're going.
- He has fully embraced my holiday mania, and even enjoys it now too.
- He loves to shop, and cares about how he dresses.
- He plans for the future and thinks ahead.
- He forgives easily and always looks for the best in people, giving them the benefit of the doubt.
- He's responsible and thinks things through.
- He's willing to ask for help and receive it.
- He cares deeply about freedom, respect for life, equality.
- He loves to explore and adventure with me.
- He is going to be the best dad - patient and calm, fun and loving.
- He's already the best husband, and I'm the best version of myself with him.