Last Thursday we celebrated John’s 31st birthday, and the team at West Elm in Houston surprised him with an impressively clever DIY-style cake that perfectly matched his personality. It was equal parts creative and hilarious — edible tape measure and all.
Every year we share a post about what we gave each other. This year John received (well, he’s picking it out) a nail gun, which is fitting for a guy who loves building things. Instead of photos of him opening gifts like in past years, I wanted to do something different: a short, honest list of seven things I love about John. Consider it a little birthday love note and a reminder of why I’m so grateful he’s in my life.
We’re far from perfect and we definitely argue sometimes, but this week felt like the right moment to celebrate what’s great about our partnership. Below are the things I appreciate most about him — the everyday moments and the small habits that make our family life feel strong and joyful.
1 – John’s love for Clara and his patience with her – He is steady and kind with our daughter, even on the chaotic days when I’m close to losing my mind. He plays with her, builds little wooden toys, and gets genuinely silly and imaginative during pretend play. Watching him make a wooden sandwich with Clara at the play kitchen he built is one of those perfectly ordinary moments that makes our home feel warm and safe. His patience and playful spirit with her are worth more than any gift.
2 – His wholehearted affection for our tiny chihuahua, Burger – We joked at first that Burger looked like an alien, but that opinion lasted about a weekend. John went from skeptic to devoted dog dad in no time. He’ll walk a tiny dog without caring what anyone thinks, and he handles the small, sometimes awkward tasks of pet parenting without complaint. That kind of confidence and care — whether it’s picking up groceries or grabbing essentials I forgot — is one of the many ways he shows he’s dependable.
3 – He kissed me first – It’s a small story that says a lot about him. John is both shy and decisive, and that mix is something I find incredibly attractive. He has a quiet confidence and a personal style that makes me swoon: comfortable, slightly dorky, and genuinely handsome. Little details — the way he lights up over a new tool, his fondness for old wooden boxes, or the sweater he wore that made me fall in love all over again — add to why I find him irresistible.
4 – His brain and sense of humor – John is quick-witted and endlessly entertaining. He makes me laugh until my sides ache and can turn an ordinary moment into something memorable with a clever quip. He’s also a problem-solver; whether it’s a DIY challenge or a website issue, he figures things out and explains them in a way that makes me feel capable too. His intelligence and humor are a daily delight.
5 – His devotion to our family – He makes our family feel secure, loved, and appreciated. After other relationships that felt one-sided, it’s an enormous comfort to be with someone who consistently shows up. John’s commitment to us is not flashy, but it’s steady: the supportive words, the small acts of care, the reassurance that we’re a team. That steadiness is rare and precious.
6 – His project-ready hands and gentle smile – There’s something attractive about his calloused hands and his easy, genuine smile. He’s hands-on and unafraid of hard work, yet he’s tender when it counts. Those contrasts — rugged and sweet — are a big part of why I’m so fond of him.
7 – His willingness to dive into “one more thing” – He’s happy to brainstorm late at night, help with another project, or stay involved with a new idea even when he might rather relax. He balances his personal interests — like training for a half marathon — with active participation in family projects. He doesn’t check out; he stays present. That partnership mindset is invaluable.
I get asked sometimes what kind of man builds things, codes a website, and also writes a post about paint, fabric, and family. The answer: a real, capable man who’s not afraid to learn and to be involved. John taught himself many skills and never shies away from jumping in. He contributes to our home and our creative life, and he treats my ideas as part of our shared vision. Because of that teamwork, our house truly feels like ours.
In short: he’s the one. He makes me happier than odd little images like “bees riding bicycles,” which is saying a lot. Happy 31st birthday, babe. Thanks for everything you do — big projects, small kindnesses, and all the laughter in between.
So that’s my little lovefest for my husband. What are you grateful for this week? Any birthdays or special moments happening in your home?
UPDATE: John eventually read this post — after finishing a basement project, uploading photos, and editing a video while I typed away. He had a good laugh and a warm reaction, which made me smile.