Sorry for forgetting

As someone who has racked up quite a few anniversaries over the years, I’ve been so proud to say that I’ve never forgotten one. Until today. 

Between a mix of deadlines, post-work trip chaos, and holiday fun, I truly have not been able to nail down my plane of existence—the date, time, and my place in it all is jumbled and scattered and gone. 

Today is November 4, which means that it’s the 14th anniversary of Chad and I being together. We started dating when we were teenagers, and you know the rest—star gazing, high school sweethearts, child bride, cross-country move, etc. etc. You can ultra-fast forward through the tape, through this incredible life of love and fun and adventure and grace and growth and plot twists that have landed us here, specifically to me, standing in my kitchen, coffee in hand and mouth open in regret, shocked that I somehow didn’t see this one coming. 

This is a pattern, though. When life is overwhelming and chaotic and jumbled (this happens, especially when article deadlines are involved), I get through with the grounding help of Chad as my anchor. He’s kind and compassionate and stoic, offering food and hugs and stability and support. As the wind whips, Chad holds me safe and secure, helping me to ride out the wave without getting swept away. 

For 14 years (5113 days, for those keeping track), Chad has been the person in my corner and my home beyond walls. Through hurricanes or smooth sailing, there’s always been one thing for me to rely on, to hold me down, to get me through. 

Happy 14th anniversary, Chad. I might’ve forgotten the day, but never the reason— it’s you. Always you.

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