Five years ago today I met Doc, he of the Steinbeckian nickname and ready puns.

For the longest time I thought a relationship was mostly like playing house: buying groceries, talking about our day, doing the cleaning and the errands. But Doc taught me that a real adult relationship should be about the interior, about two people who like each other learning to like each other more, learning to respect differences, learning to communicate the way the other needs it.

He’s been so caring during Mom’s sickness and after we entered the void of losing her. He gave me the push to start therapy, for which I will be forever grateful. He listens patiently while I describe all my workouts in great detail and he always admires the fabric I buy.

Here’s to another five years, honey. Happy anniversary.<3