The First Year

It’s really hard for me to believe that a year ago this morning, I was running along the Hawaiian shore, just off Diamond Head. At the end of my run, I stopped by the gazebo where I was to wed later that day. The sun was peeking over the ocean and the sky was streaked with orange, purple, and blue; like God dipped an oversized paintbrush on a mixed palette and streaked the sky just for me.

As luck would have it, my mom—an early riser—snuck up behind me. Her coffee cup sent miniature smoke signals as she leaned over to hug me. We both stared at each other and cried. Happy tears. We knew that the day would mark the first of many new changes in my life, but I doubt we fully comprehended the person I would become.

This past year has been the sweetest I can remember. Ever. And most of it has to do with my beautiful husband. He has been my coach, cheerleader, financial advisor, chef, housekeeper, chauffer, nurse, confidant, dream catcher, and best friend. When I cry, it’s his shoulder I rest upon. When I want to give up, it’s his back I ride the rest of the way. When I laugh, it’s his eyes I look into. When I’m angry, it’s his hands that rub away the venom. Without him, there’s no me.

Happy Anniversary, JD! You make me want to be a better person. You make me want to wake up in the morning and try again. You make me want to reach out and make a difference. You make me want to sprinkle the love we share on those around us. You make me want to be a better person. 143.


Picture by David Jay