Birthday wishes and burger dreams...

I don't remember the first birthday of yours we spent together. I have no idea where we went or what I may have gifted you. We've been together so long I barely remember how old you were at the time.

What I do remember is the first time we celebrated my birthday together as a couple. We were dating long-distance, and you flew to stay with me in Denver. I had to leave for a few hours, and when I returned I was greeted with a big smile and a homemade cake with bright yellow flowers and rich chocolate frosting. When I discovered that you'd never made a cake before, my heart melted. And when I learned you'd walked two hot miles to the grocery store schlepping 2-pound bags of flour and sugar and cake pans, I didn't think you could get much sweeter.

Until you casually mentioned that you'd made a "practice cake" a week earlier to make sure you'd get it just right. Then I knew I'd hit the lotto.

That's the kind of person you are. You are thoughtful, and lovely and uncommonly kind. You're the kind of man I always wanted and the kind of person I will always want to be. I hope this year brings you as much happiness as you continue to bring me.

If I could, I would give you the world. Maybe someday I'll come close. But tonight, I'd like to take you out for burgers and milkshakes.