Michael and Carina Photography

To my dearest friend,

Hello Schatz. I just wanted to write you a short note, just like we used to do, to say Happy Birthday.

There are no words for how happy you make me, how entirely you complete me.

I can’t comprehend after over 10 years of a relationship and almost 6 years of being married what I could have ever done to deserve you.

But I won’t dare to question what ever brought us together. I love you, and you love me, and each day, each year that passes with you I am grateful for.

As much as I know you’re excited to be alive, and as much excited as we both are to be here, right now, living our dream in America…

…I also know that what used to be such a happy time of year for you is now bittersweet, missing your family.

Take comfort in knowing that this day, like any other day, is another milestone putting us closer to seeing them again!

Thank you for putting up with me the past year. In all my absent-mindedness (anyone who knows me know what I mean), you forgive me. You are patient with me.

Thank you for encouraging me to always do better and to never be satisfied with “normal.”

I could say, “Zhat’s zhe German way,” or that’s just your Bavarian Abitur talking, but what a disservice that would be.

Your character goes much deeper than that.

Your kindness, your loveliness, your humor, your generosity, your patience, your stubbornness… I am thankful for all of the wonderful things that make you who you are.

For your birthday, I’d like to make a wish for you.

Forgive me for being selfish, but it has to do with me.

For your birthday, I wish that I can be a better help to you, love you better and remember to tell you each and every day something that amazes me about you.

You deserve nothing less!

I am so happy you’re alive.

And I am so very, deeply, madly, truly in love with you.

Happy birthday.

Your Michael