Day 121

March 2, 1976 was a wonderful day in history. On this day, in good ole Cleveland, Ohio my Todd Warren Dery was born. I believe on this day, I was a happier baby knowing that one day my path would cross with this wonderful individual.

I truly believe there was not a cuter child in this world. Those dimples, eyes, and smile could brighten a room. Still to this day, he does that for so many people. I have never met someone like him, making such an impact when meeting people. (Actually, I have. It was his father!) The apple did not fall far from the tree. I don't know many people who don't consider him a friend, but most consider him a great friend. I know he is the best friend I have ever had. I think I am in a close second with the "Deez."

Todd always tells me about his childhood. He says how athletic he was and how great he was with the ladies. As most of you know, he loves to tell stories. I think I have heard all of them by now and I still love hearing old ones; whether it is about family trips to Florida, OHS soccer games, Green and White, or the high school fraternity. (I refuse to write its real name!) We were just in Florida and I probably heard 3 times that I would not believe how great of an athlete he used to be and how he peaked around 12 or 13. Last summer he brought me to one of his favorite places, Robinhood. He proceeded to show me how he still had it in him to nail horseshoes or hit the ball in the trees. Whatever it was, he said it with so much emotion that it made me care and intrigued me to see more. That is another thing I love about him, his zest for life. He will always be youthful in my eyes; always holding on to the small piece of immaturity that makes him so much more fun!

A little more than 11 years ago, I was blessed with meeting this man. My life has changed dramatically since then. When I first met Todd, at a bar in Lawrence, KS I knew he was the one. He didn't, but that's ok. We spent countless nights together learning everything about each other. The best thing about Todd was that he always put me first. He considers my happiness and will do his best to accommodate my moods. A few examples; when I get hungry after not eating for awhile, I get jittery. He immediately knows it is no joke and we need to get food before the mood changes. He knows to keep his distance after my naps, and he knows when I need him to do something without saying it. I have finally found someone to share my ESP with. My mother has said from the beginning that she thanks him everyday for changing me into a "nicer" person. Hats off to him for that, my whole family thinks that was a big feat.

As most of you heard, I didn't cry at my engagement. Todd has never forgiven me for that, he reminds me of every time there is a finale of the Real World. My all time favorite memory was on the day of our wedding. It was the moment that we saw each other for the first time. He just gave me that look, put his hands over his mouth, and then wiped a tear from his eye. He always makes me feel that I am beautiful. Even when I don't wash my hair for two days. I cried on my wedding day, out of pure joy and happiness. For that, I think he will always be proud.

I have learned so much from him, he has definitely kept me on my toes. We have ventured all over the country, but we have never left it because he "is just not into it". We became proud parents of our dog, Casey. Let's give it up to him for becoming a dog person. I look forward to our journey together, wherever that may lead us. As long as we are together, it will all work out.

Todd has introduced me to his many WONDERFUL friends and family. I feel very lucky to be a part of his life to have met all of you out there. Todd is a special person who deserves only the best on his 30th birthday. I know he appreciates all of the love and support he gets from all of our family and friends. So, on this day I hope that all of you can give him the props that he truly deserves.

TD- I love you, happy birthday!

Song of the day, "At Last" by Etta James