My John

How do I count the ways I love thee? These two pictures of you holding Kapaun and me holding Kapaun summarize our mutual shared loved and mission.  Our children.  You know I am crazy about you, but the love I have only multiplies after the births of each of our children.  My favorite hospital memories shared between us are the moment when the baby is born and how we look at each other and each day you come up to see me after having been at home helping with the other kids.  I am sure it is the grace of the moment, but I love seeing you walk around the curtain and how you smile at me.  I bask in the admiration and esteem you have for mothers and their work, but pridefully admit that I love that you shower me with that deep affection. 

You are so good to go over and over each child's birth with me.  I love that you remember the details about each child and I love how we compare each birth.  I love our mutual resolve to carry out the mission God has set before us with dependency upon God, our faith, and each other.  

I prayed many novenas and prayers my whole single life for you.  I asked God specifically for a St. Joseph.  I would be amiss if I didn't acknowledge the fine example your parents set for you. You have learned from the best.  You grew up watching both your grandfathers lovingly care for their wives.  You have watched each of them lead their families spiritually.  You were led by your own strong father.  How blessed we are from their sacrifices and generosity to love deeply and love eternally.

You do look incredibly handsome in your professional attire admiring your new son.  I have to say it.  It still makes my heart skip a beat.