Poco a Poco: Tyler Thursday

Every Thursday could easily be brag day about my husband. But today is especially so, because it's his birthday.

Birthdays are big deal where I come from.

They usually last two weeks - minimum - and involve multiple celebrations.

Ty has never been one to make a big deal out of himself, so I'm going to do it for him.

Here are twenty-four reasons my husband is just perfect for me. Can't wait until you're fifty, Ty! Then I can say nearly half of what I want.

1. He loves Jesus. More than he loves me.

2. He loves me second. Nobody else is close for the tie.

3. He understands the value of our extended family. Then again, our families are rockin'.

4. He is always willing to listen, no matter what craziness comes out of my mouth. No idea is too ridiculous to him. And he doesn't laugh at me.

5. But he certainly makes me laugh! Ty's sense of humor is one of my favorite things about him. He can always make me laugh, even when I'm low or in super-productive mode.

6. He supports me in all my endeavors. He is always there to encourage me and cheer me on. This is especially the case in my musical studies. He goes out of his way to show me he cares about my passion.

7. He is a patient man. If you know anything about our dating story, you know this to be true. It remains so, and I am increasingly grateful! He always trusts the payoff will be worth the wait.

8. He loves his sisters. My mom always told me that how a man treats his sisters is how he will treat his wife. I listened, Mom. My Ty loves and looks out for his sisters always.

9. He tells me he loves me, every day. I may be covered in sweat or sick in bed.
No matter - he says so just the same.

10. He is flexible. Chances are, if I ask him to help me with something or change his plan for the day, he will do it.

11. He eats whatever I make. Some days are better than others, for sure. He always blesses the food and thanks God for me.

12. He chooses not to complain. He gently reminds me that sometimes my version of ''stating the facts'' is a bit whiney. He rarely darkens his circumstances by his descriptions.

13. He is excited about our dog. This may sound silly, but it's something that has made me love him even more. I so enjoy watching him play with Brooklyn. I can tell he's head-over-heels for her, and I know he will be a great dad one day.

14. He is a hard-worker. Ty is devoted and dedicated to whatever he sets himself. Talk about intrinsic motivation.

15. He is a servant. If something needs done or someone needs assistance, he is always quick to volunteer his time and efforts.

16. He is full of surprises! I love finding out new tidbits or hearing his spin on an old story. Invariably, I learn new things about him all the time!

17. He is loyal. He loves to follow his favorite bands from high school, purchase the soap Mamacita always bought, and reconnect with old friends. He is most loyal to his family.

18. He is level-headed. I tend to be hot-tempered. At least one of us thinks before speaking his mind.

19. He is an honorable man, above repute. A true gentleman.

20. He thinks the best of others. This is sometimes astounding to me, and then so encouraging! What a relief to let go of speculation and the anxiety which can accompany it.

21. If I'm in need of ice cream or dark chocolate, he will magically make my wishes come true.

22. He helps me escape the box. I mean the one in which I so often try to live and force everything else to follow suit. He shows me that life is wonderful and beautiful even when the daily to-do list isn't accomplished or the budget is off by five dollars.

23. He is a learner. I love that he's always talking to me about something new he heard or a new skill he learned. Whenever he is interested in something, he sure does his research. I guess we are alike in this way. (Between the two of us, we know a heck of a lot about dogs now!)

24. He's mine.

I love you, Tyler Neil!

Happy 24th birthday! I joyfully anticipate many more birthdays.