Nine years ago today, Jenny and I promised to spend the rest of our lives together. I can’t speak for her, but it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Over the years, I’ve gotten to see her in a variety of roles – wife, hardworking student, supportive family member, outstanding coworker at Southwest and CARES, loyal friend, and devoted mother. In every one, through all the years, her best qualities have never dimmed. Here are a few of them:

• Extraordinary patience – I’m not the easiest person to live with by any stretch of the imagination, and together we have created two little boys who are wonderful but sometimes…um…difficult. She puts up with all three of her boys, handles our drama, and somehow manages to keep a smile on her face most of the time.
• Big heart – Those of you who know her already know that Jenny gives and gives and gives and expects little in return. She willingly sacrifices her own comfort, possessions, and time to help someone else.
• Silliness – She doesn’t take herself too seriously and cherishes the funny things of life – Muppets, the bizarre proclamations of Brenden that force us to avoid eye contact with each other, even Mr. Hankey. Her silliness helps everyone around her relax and be more themselves.
• Brains – She doesn’t flaunt her intelligence or try to belittle you with it, but Jenny has a ton going on upstairs. She embraces her inner nerd, and I love her for it. Did you know she got accepted to Harvard?

I don’t tell her nearly often enough, but I’m so blessed to have Jenny as my wife. Those of you who know her understand why.

I love you so much, Jenny. Thank you for saying yes and meaning it.