Dear Shawn, 

Happy 29th handsome. I spent a little while searching for a picture of just you to use for today’s post as 98% of them turn out looking like a giant hand in front of your face while exclaiming “don’t!”, but then I landed on this one up above and my eyes filled up with tears instantly. How perfectly it captures exactly what I see when I look at you. You are a man that has had to work for every little bit of where you are now. The adversities thrown your way throughout the past 29 years would have been enough to make me give up on life. But you? You have taken those challenges and have turned them into something great. The way you take a hardship and turn it into an opportunity to become stronger, smarter, and often happier is an amazing and admirable trait. I hope you know the pride that is behind these eyes of mine when looking at you. I wish so badly that your dad was here to witness the man you have become, but I trust he is watching it all from up above saying “job well done son”. You are exactly what so many people would’ve never guessed you to be years ago. Your work ethic is out of this world. Your lighthearted spirit is inspirational. Your smile is contagious. Your stability is appreciated. And best of all, your love is unquestionable. Not only have you taught me what joy, peace, comfort, and protection feel like but you have also shown me how grace and forgiveness are played out in very tangible ways. Thank you for loving us through life. Without you, I would be half of the woman I am today. And hey. I know I don’t always say it, but the man that you are…is exactly the man I want you to be. Keep doing you. It’s the best thing I’ve ever experienced. 

Love you. 

E

….now let’s go celebrate before you turn 30.