Sometimes I take my husband for granted.

Not intentionally, of course, but it happens.

His birthday is coming up next month. In honor of his special day, I wanted to make a list of the top 10 reasons why I’m glad he’s in my life (in no particular order).

10 Reasons I’m Thankful for My Husband:

1. He puts up with my perfectionist habits.

He even helps me “organize the junk drawer.” (And please don’t tell me, “It doesn’t need to be organized. It’s a junk drawer.” I know it makes no sense to most people, but it does to me! It needs to be organized!)

2. He never criticizes what I do.

As a stay-at-home mom, it’s tempting to feel like I contribute very much to our family. If I’m ever feeling like a failure, he’s the first one to remind me I’m not.

3. He loves his mom . . . and the rest of his family.

4. He’s a blue.

As a sensitive blue myself (on the color code personality chart), I’m thankful to have another blue in our home, even if he’s not quite as “blue” as I am.

5. He works hard to provide for his family.

We might not have the nicest things, but we have what we need. And it’s all because of him.

6. He makes me laugh.

7. He gives the best foot rubs.

8. He challenges me to follow my dreams.

And he believes in me more than I believe in myself.

9. He loves his kids.

There is nothing more special than watching your husband play with your children.

10. He loves his God.

When I thought our world was falling apart after all of our miscarriages, he kept me on track and reminded me that our God is bigger than any storm we might face.

And…as a bonus…

11. No one can mow or vacuum or lay gaff tape in as straight a line as he. 🙂

Happy Birthday, Keith. You might not be exactly the same as you were when I married you thirteen years ago, but I love you all the same.

*This post was originally published in 2011, but has been updated today.