A Month of Gratitude, Day 31 - The Smart Man

Tuesday, December 31, 2013
The Smart Man and I have been together for fifteen years, and have lived together here in the Big Yellow House since February 2002. We had our rough patches, especially right after we bought our house, but worked through them fairly quickly. Now we walk through life like a pair of well matched designer shoes (because I wouldn't be caught dead in old, worn out shoes).

And it's been a rough year here at the Big Yellow House. In addition to dealing with the death of my daughter in July, we've also dealt with serious illness, injury and death in the six other cases.

At this point, our attitude about 2013 is that we'd love to tear off its head and shit down its neck as we kick its ass on the way out the door.

And yet for me, there's one thing that has remained the cornerstone of my life, one thing that has anchored me, and kept me functional during this most horrifying of years.

The Smart Man.

He supported both me and my mother when she was seriously ill at the beginning of the year. He took charge of our lives and carried the load when my daughter died. He has cared for me conscientiously and tenderly during the worst year of my life. He keeps me grounded and helps me maintain my perspective. He's always on my side, even if he feels likes he needs to criticize my behavior. His family is my family, and vice versa. Like me, he's dedicated to a self imposed drama-free life.

Today I'm grateful for the Smart Man, and all he brings to my life.

8 comments:

mom in northern said...

Yep....a keeper.

Bill Ward said...

I feel fortunate to have found (and followed) your blog this month as you chronicled each day's reason for gratitude.

I probably am not your typical reader (old, ex-Marine, 100% disabled Vietnam vet, 3-Purple Heart recipient) but like Mr. Jim Wright of StoneKettle Station where I first saw your link, I like hearing what you have to say and I like the way you say it.

Best wishes to you and the 'Smart Man' on a new and prosperous 2014.

(BTW my website is www.326marines.com)

Janiece said...

Welcome, Bill.

My readers are a diverse bunch, and you're not the oldest by several decades.

Thank you for your service, and your kind words.

Carol Elaine said...

I am soooo happy that you have The Smart Man in your life and that he has you in his. A fantabulous woman deserves a fantabulous man.

The Mechanicky Gal said...

So I guess he can stay?

Janiece said...

Yes, he's totally staying. Bwahaha.

Random Michelle K said...

YAY for the Smart Man!
Don't kick him in the can!

Yup. Still a Vogon Poet. Not quitting my day job.

But I am glad for the Smart Man. :)

Anne C. said...

I love the two of you. I love that he makes you laugh. I love that he supports you without asking you to be different than you are. I love that he tells you his opinion and is not afraid to be himself. You truly are a well matched pair. <3