Happy Birthday, Andy

This side of 12 years ago I was delayed in Omaha, headed for Chicago, and ready to celebrate his 21st birthday.

I finally arrived in whirl of wind and cold and snow and we headed out to the bars. He did shot after shot, I joined him for just a few.

He wore a wrinkled sweater, a size too big, and a beard. I wore the obligatory black pants and belly bearing shirt.

We laughed with friends and got a tad drunk.

I remember thinking then, I'm going to marry this guy.

I am sure that we ended the night with a burrito and started the next day with a headache.

After all, you only turn 21 once...

I sit here today in a pair of worn out fleece pants and a pullover, at 4:00, unshowered.

He headed off to work in a pressed button down and a newly grown beard.

We're heading out tonight - to a fifth grade basketball game and dinner of wings and beer. We won't be laughing with friends, but we'll be amused by a two year old and surrounded by family.

We'll surely be in bed by 11:00 and it's doubtful there will be any head aches tomorrow.

After all, you only turn 33 once...

I think I like this side of the 12 years the best. Happy Birthday, Husband....