Thankful Thursday - This Dude

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:

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