Yesterday my hubby came home after working a ten hour day and plopped down in his recliner with a smile and sigh.  Jackson was asleep and the house was quiet.  I climbed onto his lap for a hug.

“Not feeling good sweetie?”  Jeff asked.

“No,”  I whispered.  ”I don’t know why.  I’m so exhausted.”

“It’s okay.  Only three more days till vacation baby.”  Jeff hugged me and rubbed my back.

I relaxed into his arms and took a deep breath, inhaling his happiness.  Jeff doesn’t struggle with depression the way I do.  He’s patient and kind during these dark winter months and I appreciate that. Sometimes his light brightens my way.

We snuggled under our blankets and watched two episodes of American Horror Story by the light of the Christmas tree.  It was fun to be completely terrified and peek at the television through my fingers like a silly teenage girl.

Finally, Jeff kissed me goodnight and worked another four hours from home.  How did I get so lucky? Really?  I ask myself this question often when I think about how hard Jeff works to take care of our family every single day without an ounce of negativity or single complaint.  He’s happy to do it, he tells me. Happy.  Happy.  Happy.

I admire that man.  I admire his commitment and work ethic.  I admire his desire to right his wrongs.  I admire his gentle affection and love for our child.  I admire his witty intelligence.  I admire his goodness and strength.

And his uncanny ability to be truly happy and content?  Pretty fantastic if you ask me.  I think I’ll follow him around for another nineteen years just soakin’ up the sun.  Yep, he’s a keeper that one.

I belong with you.  You belong with me.  You’re my sweetheart.                                                                                                                    The Lumineers