HAPPY 40th birthday to Melissa, the most amazing wife, mom, friend, daughter, sister, aunt, cousin, polymath, arts therapist, musician, singer, pianist, drummer, guitarist, artist, metalsmith, painter, sculptor, caricature artist, childrens book illustrator, filmmaker, therapist, empath, teacher, meditator, seeker, helper, volunteer, activist, feminist, lover, confidante, collaborator, mentor, dreamer, business owner, absolute babe, mover, shaker, healer, advocate, creator, storyteller, nurturer, maker, tinkerer, companion, visionary, traveler, student, lifelong learner, listener, comforter, muse, inspirer, peacemaker, soul, joy-bringer, community builder,  innovator, problem-solver, encourager, motivator, protector, explorer, truth-teller, bridge-builder, light-bearer, and idealist.

Melissa: thank you for teaching me what true love is and what genuine character really looks like. The world is a much better place because you're in it. It's an absolute honor and privilege to travel through life with you. I'm so incredibly excited for everything to come. I love you more than anything.