One Year

One year ago today, I went out on a date. It was a first date, and I was nervous, of course.  I wasn't sure how it would go.  I knew I liked the fella based on our interactions up to that point. But you never know how things will work in person.  

I needn't have worried. I had a great time.  He was tall and handsome and so easy to talk to -- I talked so much that night, I gave myself a headache! Thankfully, I didn't give him one, too.  Or, at least, if I did, he didn't let on that I did. It must not have been too awful, because he did ask me out again. 

And a series of dates turned into something much more. I know it's sappy and schmoopie, but I warned folks awhile ago -- if you're going to read my stuff, you're just going to have to deal with it.  I found the most amazing man and am so very lucky to have him in my life. I know just how rare that is. So I'm not going to be shy about expressing my gratitude for it. 

He is so good to me.  So very kind and thoughtful.  So funny and silly.  So smart and witty. So loving and patient. And have I mentioned he's handsome?  He has two awesome daughters whom I've enjoyed getting to know, and with whom I genuinely love to spend time.  He's wonderful to Riley.  His family is lovely, and he's taken to mine without batting an eye.  He has made my life much fuller and richer, and I'm a better person for knowing him.  

So, Happy Anniversary to my beau!  I am beyond thankful to have him in my life.  

A Merry Little Christmas

"Have yourself a merry little Christmas. Let your heart be light. From now on your troubles will be out of sight."

Every morning when I go in for my radiation treatment, they have music playing. It's been an eclectic mix - from Sinatra to Dave Matthews to Christmas music. Yesterday, as I settled in for my daily zapping, I was greeted with the above refrain.  And I found it unexpectedly reassuring.

In years past, when I heard it -- if I gave it much thought at all -- it made me feel sad and wistful. It felt like an empty promise. Or, at least, an unfulfilled one.  

Not this year.  Oh, it's had its share of troubles -- more than its share, some would say. And I'm not naive enough to think there will never be more. But they don't overwhelm me and weigh my heart down the way they once did.  

And for the first time in a very long time, I am indeed having myself a merry little Christmas.  I hope you are, as well.