292

This one snuck up on me. So much happening, so much up and down, so much hurry up and wait. As the saying goes, this month has been a hell of a year. I haven't been the strongest. I haven't been the happiest. This year has been hard for us. I'm happy you love your job. I'm relieved that you found a place that appreciates you. I hope one day to find a full-time place of my own like that. We deserve some stability after this year. We are home, but until I find stable work it won't feel like we unpacked yet. At least you have a loving househusband who can keep our cats entertained. 

For now, it's enough. For us, there is hope. And always, love. 

Happy monthly anniversary, my love.

 291

Happy monthly anniversary, my love. 

Summer fades to cooler air, the sweet decomposition of fallen leaves, and the excuse to pile more blankets on the bed. Thank you for being kind to me as I still sit in limbo about my writing career. Thank you for believing in me when I don't. You see the longer view. You remember the good things I've done. I got us home from Europe. I found us a place to live and made sure we were comfortable. I stay healthy. I run. I keep going. And that's enough for you. I love you.

 290

Happy monthly anniversary, my love. The summer is starting to give up its wretched, prying heat at long last and we are both finding stability. I'm landing more opportunities for work. You are settling in at your job. We are in our home. Europe is behind us. We have the complete unclenching of the spirit that only comes when you have peace of being on familiar ground. It's more than enough and better than luck. It's the thing I see this month. And if things work out, we will have better news 30 days from now. Until then, I hope you are happy. 

 289

Another month together, my love. We swelter in the July heat as we continue through the summer, you working and me looking for someplace to land still. A couple things might shake out, but I'm still grateful to have enough breathing space to apply and not get discouraged when I get ghosted or come in second place in the final interview. It's been a tough job market, but it'll work out. I'm getting career assistance now and I feel like it's a good way forward. Thank you for believing in me and your patience. Happy monthly anniversary. 

 288

Happy anniversary, my love. Twenty-four years. One condo, two domestic apartments, five overseas apartments. Thousands of miles travelled together. Thousands of meals eaten together. Countless struggles shared and victories embraced. I love you. I hope you have enjoyed this journey so far.