Happy Anniversary!

Today, December 29th, Michael and I are celebrating out 22nd anniversary. Sometimes our relationship seems so fresh, it is as if we are still honeymooning. At the same time, I can't remember life without him. I feel like we've finally reached the point in our relationship, that it only gets better with each day. And yes, there are still things I am learning about him, and new things to love about him. So in honor of this special occasion, here are 22 things I appreciate about Michael:

1. His smile, whether he is smiling at one of the kids, grandson, or me. He has a smile that melts my heart.

2. His sense of humor. It pops up unexpectedly at times, and makes me laugh silly. Usually when I am way too serious.

3. His way with finances. How else can you explain how we've managed all these years? When he didn't have a "job" for 2 years, we did great.

4. Along with finances, he is hard-working and creative.

5. Michael is not afraid to take risks.

6. He challenges me. Sometimes it doesn't seem so endearing at the moment, but I am a better person for it. The first few years of marriage I was not thankful for this quality, but I am now. And yes, he still finds ways to get me to step out of my comfort zone.

7. I love the way he tells me that I'm the best thing that ever happened to him.

8. I love his sense of adventure. (I can't wait to see where it takes us when the kids are grown.)

9. He has learned to validate my feelings and listen, not just try to fix everything for me.

10. I love to see the pride in his eyes when he takes Ethan riding on the lawn mower.

11. I love that he is always up for trying new dishes and never criticizes my cooking. He'll try anything once, and if something is really distateful, he will comment, "It wouldn't hurt my feelings if you didn't want to make this one again."

12. Even though he says anything I cook is better than going out to eat, he still takes me out or orders out so I get a break from cooking.

13. He will go get my car washed and vacuumed, just because he loves me.

14. He never leaves his dirty clothes around. He always picks up after himself.

15. When I need an errand run, or chore done, he does it immediately. I never have to ask twice.

16. He's not afraid to admit he was wrong.

17. He is courageous and won't hesitate to stop and ask for directions or for help.

18. He takes care of all of the things I dislike doing, like making phone calls, fixing things, etc.

20. I can't believe he tolerates the way I toss and turn in bed to get comfortable, but never once has he complained.

21. I'm so thankful that he is neat and tidy, but doesn't give me a hard time for not being so organized.

22. I so appreciate that he cares so deeply for me and our children and grandson. His love shines through in all he does. He is my hero.