This weekend, we celebrated the birthday of my favorite human. Evan’s special day warrants a well-deserved shout out. He is the most amazing dad to Gage and Caleb and I’m so lucky to call him my husband. I love the way he loves our family and am so grateful for a partner like him.
Among Evan’s many great qualities are his ability to keep us laughing, not take himself too seriously, understand what things are truly important, and think about what’s best for our family long term. We balance each other out in many ways because we’re different. It’s easy to get so caught up in caring for our littles and the daily grind, that we’re distracted from taking time for just us. But when we do get those rare opportunities to connect, like a day date/birthday lunch, I’m reminded that I don’t just love him, I still really like him too.
Sometimes I question why people express their gratitude and appreciation for someone online, and not just face-to-face with a person they live with. But I share so much here on this blog. It’s been a place for me to express my feelings, work through the messy thoughts in my head, give updates on Gage’s progress and setbacks, and share funny stories about Caleb too. During Evan’s birthday month, I’m taking advantage of this space to brag on him as well.
You see, as a special needs dad, I don’t think he’s afforded all the same luxury that I am as Gage’s mom. I’ve forged friendships in therapy waiting rooms and school parking lots. Other moms have been such a lifeline to me and it’s so great to be around others who just get it. I’m not sure Evan could describe finding that same common ground with his acquaintances. Regardless, he and I share the common ground of feeling an overwhelming love for both our boys, and all that it entails. I know that without even putting things into words, Evan gets it. Time and time again, he’s my refuge, my safe place. On his birthday, and every day, I love him for that.