2 years ago, Austin introduced me to COBE Awareness Week by picking me up from my parent's house, driving me out to holland, and hammocking beachside for a few hours as we prepared to say "see ya later" for the first time since the start of our relationship. Austin was leaving for Israel, and shortly after he came home, I was leaving for El Salvador. Certainly an interesting way to start a relationship, but nonetheless, the man I now call my husband made the most of it. If you've never heard of COBE Awareness Week, don't worry I hadn't either. COBE stands for Celebrating One's Birthday Early. Austin created COBE because he was going to miss my birthday while he was in Israel. All of his friends told him not to do. They thought it was ridiculously cheesy and that I would hate it. Luckily for Austin, he trusted his gut and proceeded with COBE. I loved it and couldn't stop talking about that date. Fast forward 2 years. I am turning 24 on Sunday. Yesterday I woke up to a COBE Awareness card on the counter, asking me to check "yes" or "no" to a surprise date. Um, yes! We went to the cutest mom and pops restaurant by Chippewa Lake, and then took our pup to the local dog park. This morning, I wake up to another card, asking me if I like surprises. (I don't, and he knows this. He added a nice disclaimer saying: regardless of your answer, there will be a surprise tonight). Talk about a distraction at work! A few hours later, a simple, beautiful boutique of flowers was delivered to my office (way to through me off with the "tonight" caveat). I'm enamored by the notes, dinners, and flowers, but more than that, I'm enamored by the thoughtfulness. I'm so grateful for my husband, a gift I certainly don't deserve. One that continues to selflessly and joyfully give. I am humbled by the way I am celebrated even when marriage has brought out the absolute worst of me more times than not. There are times we don't quite get the marriage thing right, but when we do, it couldn't speak louder of God's redemptive plan.
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Hi! I'm Haley. Archives
May 2019
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