Happy Birthday Ben!

It's a happy day at the Pond today--my dear husband's birthday! Unlike normal people, my husband is shy when it comes to his birthday. He adores presents, but hates asking for them. He is appreciative of friends and family's well-wishes, but won't seek it out on his own. He won't let me make a cake, decorate the house, plan a party or do anything festive at all. That's what I have Libby for, he said. If Ben had his way, today would pass with a few heartwarming phone calls, a plate full of oatmeal cookies and a quiet evening at home.

Obviously, he doesn't know me well.

So in honor of Ben's birthday, I have created a birthday ode complete with photographs. Enjoy, Puddle. I love you!

Ode to Ben's Birthday (You're no longer 23!)

Your birthday has flummoxed me in many ways,

as I tried desperately to figure out how to celebrate.

I could write you a touching sonnet, a gushy letter,

Perhaps even draw you a picture.

But as the patriarch of the Pond,

the master of chaos,

I decided instead,

to honor you with the Pond award of Greatness.

As a patient man,

you've put up with a lot in the name of love.

For example, how many men would don a crown at a restaurant,

And wear it proudly while tearing into a plate of lasagna?

Not only are you willing to be silly for a joke,

You care about the safety of our family.

It's easy to tell you're the caring and compassionate sort,

As you learned how to draw a lighter at a moment's notice.

Just in case there was ever a draw, of course.

(I guess you could say you put my heart aflame. Get it?)

When I'm down, you always pick me up,

No matter whether I'm depressed about work or writing troubles.

You always listen and give advice,

offering a shoulder and plenty of support.

Not only does Ben help out around the house,
he knows when it's time to take me out.
Sometimes I can coax him out of his sandals and black socks,
And when he gets all decked out, he looks pretty hot.

Although he used to be a holiday miser,

Ben's actually learning to enjoy holidays, which is wonderful news to me.

Instead of grumbling about commercialism and greed,

He just pretends he's an elf. (Or tries to sleep through it. I can't tell.)

Of course, the real reason Ben deserves all the attention,

Is actually two.

For he gave me the two cutest little fur balls,

that the Pond has ever seen.

Happy Birthday Ben! I love you! (Bitty and Bear love your shoes. Just don't let them see your new boots.)