Thirteen years ago today, I married the love of my life. I can't believe that it has been that long because it certainly hasn't seemed like it.
I first met Joanne nearly fifteen years ago, and I was struck immediately by her smile. But over the years, I have been continually awed by her compassion, patience, understanding, and support. Joanne has the biggest heart, and if she could, she would rescue every sick, old, stray, and abandoned animal that she could. We have quite the menagerie now, and it is because of her that I have become a firm believer in rescuing and fostering animals. That love and compassion for animals also extends to her job as a licensed veterinary technician where she works with sick and injured animals. It's a stressful job with long, busy days, but she loves what she does. The animals are lucky to have her.
It's not just her love for animals that I love and admire, it's also the continued support that she has given me over the years. Without it, I wouldn't be able to do the things that I have done over the last 15 years - writing the books, traveling for workshops, making art. Joanne has supported me in so many ways, and she has been extremely patient and understanding with me over the years. Knowing that she is there by my side, makes moving into a new chapter of my life much easier, and I can't imagine doing it without her.
I am so glad that I took a chance to get to know her all of those years ago, and I am so glad that she took a chance to get to know me. I can't imagine life without her.
Happy Anniversary to my beautiful wife! I look forward to many, many more years to come.