Vince,
Today you turn 28. That means I have had the honor of celebrating 11 birthdays with you (well, technically your 18th was at boot camp and 19th was in Iraq, but you get the gist).
I have had the honor of watching you grow up. I have had the honor of watching a shy, uncertain teenager become a successful, confidant man. I have had the honor of watching you over come every hurdle thrown at you. I have had the honor to see you go from an infantry Marine to a CPA, and while that path was a tad rocky, you have always impressed me with your determination. I have had the honor to call you my husband and my best friend.
Vince, you sir are one incredible human being and you are so very easy to celebrate.
You are silly and so smart.
You get the best belly laughs out of Mila and give the best “boo boo” kisses.
You allow me to dream but keep me grounded.
You are an over-comer and hard worker.
…. and you only get better lookin’ with age (can I get an AMEN!?)
Thank you for always being willing to try out a new recipe and being so kind when it wasn’t that tasty. Thank you for always letting me pick which side of the bed I want when we travel and for letting me pick which seat I want on airplanes. Thank you for your persistence, optimism, and candor. Thank you for being my travel buddy, therapist, and teammate. Thank you for the life we have built together and for the sacrifices you have made.
I remember hearing the diagnosis after your accident and so worried as to how you would take the news. Knowing you should have died. Knowing your Marine Corps career just ended. Knowing you may never be able to move your arm again… But just like every other challenge, you took it in stride. Within months of the accident you were back taking college classes, going to PT multiple times a week, and doing your best to adjust to this new “normal.” You found your niche in accounting and from there you got your MBA and passed all four CPA exams in less than 6 months. Wow.
Vince, I don’t say it enough but you are remarkable. I doubt many people could be dealt the cards you were dealt and not only succeed and surpass all expectations but also remain hopeful.
You are remarkable. Extraordinary. And you are a miracle.
So today, on your 28th birthday, I just want to take a moment to tell you how much I love you, how grateful I am to be your wife, and how much I admire you.
Always,
ML
(here’s another trip down memory lane. you’re welcome.)
These are wonderful pictures and certainly a remarkable tribute to your wonderful husband (aka} “Good Looking!} Thank you so much for sharing. Your’e the best!!
Love, Linda