Heath returned home yesterday after embarking on a 5-day hike through the Weminuche Wilderness with his nature-loving, Catan-playing bros. Despite his being MIA for less than a week, I really missed that sucker. Perhaps it’s the whole absence-makes-the-heart-grow-fonder thing, or maybe it was sweet relief that he was not engulfed in forest fire flames along with the rest of Colorado, but I all but tackled the poor boy when he came through the door.
I’m pleased, nay, elated to have him home again. And today I celebrate not only his safe to return to the dh, but also my beloved He[ath]ro[binson]’s birthday with this post dedicated to the fellow I’m lucky enough to call my moosh.
Heath,
To appeal to your vanity, allow me to start my ode to you by declaring my absolute adoration of your smokin’ hot bod. I love your patchy red beard and the way you’re so quick to make fun of it. And I’m particularly fond of your curly brown hair that you never knew you had until we started dating. Folks have been known to call you “Handsome Heath” and I can hardly imagine a better nickname…
…Until I remember the title “Handyman Heath” first dubbed onto you by our college roommate after you put together the umpteenth piece of Ikea furniture in our apartment. You’ve never backed down from a challenge—whether it be fixing a washing machine, building a chicken coop or learning to garden. You’re a trouble-shooter through and through, and I’ve yet to meet another soul as quick to come to the rescue of broken appliance or malfunctioning automobile.
While this audience of readers may not be aware, your friends and family know you’re more than just a pretty face and good pair of hands. You have a curious mind, and a big heart. You’re an inspiring teacher who truly, truly loves what you do and wants only the best for your students. You’re enthusiastic and clever and steadfast, and you live faithfully by the words of Dr. Seuss: “Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not.”
Your humor, while sometimes self-deprecating still manages to be charming, and your eagerness to please the ones you love is earnest and refreshing. You’re silly and you’re kind. You’re inquisitive and you’re confident. You look forward, never back and you inspire those around you to be better. There is no man or beast who isn’t made finer from being in a room with you.
Happiest birthday wishes to you, Heath Robinson. You are loved by many.
