Dear you,

This time of year is usually blown up, blown out, over-the-top, commercialized, and drawn out. It can be exhausting, I know.

However: this time of year is a beautiful reminder that we CAN slow down. We can cherish what our lives are filled with. We can hold the people closest to us to our hearts and reflect on the beauty they bring to life. The fact that we have a world-wide day dedicated to sharing family, joy, deep hugs and hand-holding, kissing beneath mistletoe… the romantic in me adores the magical love of it all.

You know, I wasn’t expecting to meet you. And I wasn’t expecting to fall in love with you. Your gentleness, kindness, and warmth are constant gifts that I get to open up every day. I don’t take that for granted — and hope I never do.

You bring out laughter from me that had been collecting cobwebs in my belly. You even laugh at MY jokes from time to time — a bonus! As I learn to accept and love myself for who I am, I am able to see more clearly and appreciate more deeply the growth and slow love YOU’VE gifted to YOURSELF. It’s tough, but you’re doing it.

I got to thinking about how our lives are different: jobs, living situations, family, choice of pet, taste in music… which then got me thinking how much we’ve learned from each other already in such a short amount of time. What could be — will be — ahead for us? I am excited.

You are moving in the direction your want your life to be: filled with creating music, loving and saving dogs, cherishing your friendships and this relationship with me, becoming the healthiest and happiest you can be — because you are damn well worth the effort. I am moving in the direction I want my life to be: filled with writing and spreading messages of love and honesty and well-being, becoming the healthiest and happiest I can be — because I am damn well worth the effort, too.

Thank you. There is a long list of thank you’s and I prefer to give those to you in person. But as you read this now, just know that I am happy to know you. Every time I tell you that, I mean it. You are a wonderful man. Thank you for loving me.

I love you,

xo Happy Christmas

Barbara