A small piece of you will always be 17 to me

Like most of the best things in life, it’s not as though the world didn’t exist before Chad.

Instead, I’ve had that incredulous realization, “I can’t believe people survived for so long without him” – as though 30 years ago a switch flipped and the existing greyscale erupted into technicolor when Chad blinked his eyes for the first time.

Time feels wild and recklessly quick (a small piece of you will always be 17 to me) and it literally hurts thinking too hard about this pace, but there’s also so much kindness in this journey, too. My hand fits just the same in yours as it always did, but I’m thankful for the unrecognizable rest—the brave pursuits of change, by you and for you as you’ve grown into your place in the world.

I love this version of you the very most, and I can’t wait to see what else you can do.

Chad: already, 30 suits you. It looks and feels and radiates a steady stream of good, great, and better, and I’m lucky to be next to you as you step further into who you’re meant to be.

Happy birthday, hubs. You’re the blue in the sky and the salt on my rim and I’m so lucky to know you and have you and to eat so many meals cooked by you. You are all kinds of wonderful—such a gift to those who earn access.

I love that you’re 30 and thriving (thirtylicious!), and that I get to shout your praises. The world is lucky to have you in it, growing and building as you go.

Life with you is everything, as each day shines brighter than the last. You are the sun to me. Cheers to a fresh decade of adventures, loving, and so much living ahead. 🤍

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