I am grateful for serious discussion, because it means my opinion has value.

I am grateful for the smell of coffee in the morning, because it means that Sam is near.

I am grateful for surprise flowers for no reason, because it means that Sam knows I love flowers.

I am grateful for road trips because they usually mean time with Sam and we enjoy the same things, so road trips are not for silence and sleeping and putting up with music or sports that does not interest both of us. And he puts up with me reading out loud to him.

I am grateful that one of our favorite things is going to church, that we both love the old hymns, and that we hold hands during EVERY prayer, always. I am grateful that God is our foundation and we’ve learned to live grace.

I am grateful that he makes me laugh and not care what anyone else thinks. Fanny packs and all.

I am grateful that Sam knows no stranger and speaks to EVERYONE he meets. Life is an adventure, everywhere we go.

I am grateful for the heart flutter of anticipation to see Sam again after a week of absence.

I am grateful for the home he is creating for us.

I am grateful that he includes me in the finances, wants me to have charge of my own, and teaches me about taxes and financial retirement importance.

I am grateful that Sam loves my girls and our grandchildren.

I am grateful that he loves to sing.

I am grateful that he loves to work – mostly grateful, that is. I’d rather he go overboard with his projects than go overboard with couching.

I am grateful that he is quick-witted, rarely grouchy, always kind, and the best living example of forgiveness I know.

I am grateful that he got me back on a motorcycle after so many years of fear.

I am grateful that he insists I drive the tractor, use a drill, and know the ins and outs of the projects.

And I am grateful that he calls me sweetheart, and darlin’, and dear…and Rhonda. I am grateful that he calls me by my name. He knew it was a big deal to me. In fact, he pays attention to what is a big deal to me. He holds my hand because that is a big deal to me. He tells me he loves me many times a day, because that is a big deal to me. He’s a big deal to me. 

Happy anniversary, Sam. You changed my world for the better, and I love you more and more with every passing day. Life is too short…and I am so glad we are better together.