I know, I know. I can't help but think that some people roll their eyes as I constantly talk about how much I ADORE my husband, our family, and our marriage. But....I can't help but do just that. So on the one hand, I feel compelled to say, "I'm sorry".....because I DO know there are those who aren't married and wish they were, who have gone through a bad marriage, are in a bad marriage, and I know hearts have been broken. There are those like my wonderful Daddy, who has lost his one love. This is nothing to ignore. Many of you I'm speaking straight to, and I am sorry. Trust me, my heart is heavy for you, and if I know of your pain, there have been tears shed out of my own eyes.

However, I have to share this. To me, it's too good NOT to share.

You see, there are times in life that one looks hell straight in the face. There are times when tragedy comes, and those who know me know our story. These times will continue on throughout life. If you're lucky, maybe they won't come your way. But if you're like most people, sometimes life will beat. the. heckfire. out of you. It is in those times that I have become even MORE thankful for this birthday boy that I'm talking about.

You see, Jesus said, "the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand." This speaks to me. In a world where people hurt. In a world where babies starve. In a world so full of hatred. In a world of broken homes, abusive spouses, hateful words.....HIS Kingdom is at hand.

For me, there have been many times in my life that I have been certain of this, because I have experienced it. In my marriage. In giving birth to our son. In sweet friendships I have been blessed with. In my Momma, Daddy, my sweet sister.

I look back on the past two years...much more have I carried besides the burden of losing my Momma. Much more have I endured. Much more have I cried about, ached about, been depressed about.

And this man, this very, (VERY), tall man that God gave to share this life with me has been here by my side through it all. He has been a reminder to me of the VERY real presence of God. Just in being himself, in loving me day in and day out with his very life. In hurting with me, mourning with me, and yes, even arguing with me because there was that ONE time I was wrong..... ;) Just in showing me true love, loyal love, REAL love, God has used this man to remind me of His very presence. My husband's love for God, for the wonderful humanity He created....it is beautiful. He loves with his whole self. I admire that. Through him, I am reminded that though I may go through hell many times throughout life...God has given him to me. I have seen glimpses of Heaven because of my husband. And I just had to share that.

Darryl James, my love, my husband....HAPPY BIRTHDAY. You are wonderful and I am honoured to be the one you choose to love everyday.