I LOVE THIS MAN!!!

"I hope you don't mind that I put down in words, how wonderful life is with you in my world." -Elton John

I have had the worst week... actually, make that the worst MONTH!!! After having an almost fairytale first year, the Center for Ethical Leadership is experiencing major obstacles... and I am not handling it well. In typical Bev style I have sulked, cried, thrown fits, and finally pushed everyone away believing I can handle it myself and can only count on myself.

But my AMAZING boyfriend has stood by me, reached out to me, comforted me, and been there for me through it all. Through my tears, my frustration, my heartache, he has been a rock, reminding me everyday, many times a day, in many different ways that I am loved. He has gently reminded me that God is with me and that hard times only make us stronger and help us to appreciate the glorious times coming around the corner. He has constantly told me and showed me that a supportive, loving relationship can provide the strength needed to face whatever comes our way. And he has helped me focus on the good, positive relationships in my life... the relationship with him and with my children. All of this while he struggles with similar frustrations in his job and career.

His strength and positive outlook lift me up on a daily basis. I used to marvel at him wondering how he could stay so positive after all he has faced in his life. I now am beginning to understand it is BECAUSE of what he has faced, survived, and grown from that makes him so committed to a belief that pain is temporary and that God will provide the peace and comfort we are in search of.

All of Michael's love and support have been there constantly this past month. The knowledge that he is only a phone call away brings renewed strength when I face roadblocks at work. But last night, this amazing man went above and beyond to lift me up.

JUST SO THE WORLD KNOWS HOW INCREDIBLE THIS MAN IS...

I had to teach until 10:00 last night... the second night in a row. I was exhausted, mentally and emotionally from the long hours and all the stress at work. When I got home last night I had a gift on my kitchen counter. Michael had snuck in and left the following... a package of chocolate kisses, a package of chocolate hugs, a card with a beach scene on the front reminding me of our trip to Hawaii in a few weeks, (and because I am trying to lose weight before we go to Hawaii an apple to eat now so I can save the chocolate for after our trip. An apple because as his note says, "I am the apple of his eye." Cheesy, yes... but soooo Michael), a vase of sunflowers, and... eat your heart out Monica Gellar... a mixed CD with only happy songs. And by the way, the CD was playing as I entered the house, so I walked in to Bono singing, "It's a Beautiful Day."

We hear of times past when people in love would run in the street and shout to people who would listen of their love for another. I suppose a blog is the modern version of that romantic gesture. For I want the whole world to know.... I LOVE THIS MAN!!!