Anniversary and Birthday

This week is a special week for me. Mike and I celebrated our anniversary on the 26th and just three days later we get to celebrate Mike's birthday! In honor of these events, I feel it only appropriate to write about my best friend and husband.

It is hard to believe that we have only been married for 3 years. I don't know that I can remember what it was like to not be married. The last three years have been some of the best in my life. I remember before Mike and I were even dating telling my mom that I wanted to marry someone just like Mike Darling. He always seemed to be different than all the other guys I knew. Something about him was really special. As I got to know him more I would have never imagined that he would have chosen me to spend his life with.

Here are a few things that I LOVE about Mike:

1. He encourages me to be a better person. He isn't afraid to call me out about a bad attitude, etc.
2. In that regard he has a way of making me laugh when I am in a bad mood. It isn't easy to be mad around him.
3. He always has a song in his soul and usually is spreading it to those around him.
4. Mike has a calming spirit on those around him.
5. If Mike is talking to someone he is giving them his full attention, regardless if it means he is not able to do other things he was supposed to do. People know that he is listening and he cares by the way he treats them.
6. I have been overwhelmed and blown away by the way he has taken on the responsibility of full-time ministry. It truly feels like his talents are being unleashed.
7. His gift for leading others in worship is incredible. I feel his enthusiasm while he is leading.
8. He works hard for our little family and always tries to go the extra mile.
9. Integrity is something embodied in Mike. He is one of the most honest, trustworthy people I know.
10. He always has a kind word and a blessing for those he encounters from the bank teller to the waitress at the restraunt.
11. Little kids LOVE him. When he is gone all the kids ask, Where's Mike? Where's Mike? I can't wait to parent with him someday.
12. He is willing to help around the house with whatever needs to be done.
13. He never lets his arthritis be an excuse for why he can't do something. He endures alot of pain most days.
14. He has a heart for faith formation. He is great at not berating someone when they do something wrong but using the moment to examine the kind of person God wants us to be.
15. He loves me unconditionally and puts up with all my baggage!
16. Mike can be really silly and light-hearted or really serious depending on what the situation calls for.
17. He continually reminds me that God will provide when I may be stressing about something!

I think this list could go on forever. I am so thankful for my husband who has chosen to live his life to the glory of God. I admire and respect who he is and waiting anxiously to see what this journey of life holds for us in the months and years to come.

Happy Anniversary and Birthday Mike! I love you!