My Stas

Look at these two kids:Who knew that three years later (plus three months, as this photo is an engagement shot and obviously not from the wedding) we'd be expecting a little boy, living in PA, working in corporate America, nearly done with law school, and tending to the most adorable canine companion?

Well in honor of our third anniversary, I will share three reasons why I love this crazy Russian.

1. Stas is not an enabler. Through marriage I've become lazy about certain things, because I live with an expert. This specifically applies to anything in the technology or automobile arenas. So whenever I have a problem I just holler and he'll come fix it in no time flat. He is a genius after all. Well this doesn't happen all of the time. Stas does not let me abuse the privilege. If I ask him something that he expects I should know, or be able to figure out, he won't do it. He likes to help me build my self-esteem and feeling of accomplishment with these little projects. He is always encouraging me to learn how to solve problems and fix things on my own. He likes to make sure that I can take care of things, and still challenge my brain every once in a while. This is also true of when he teased me until I walked on the glass floor of the CN Tower, despite my insistence that it is totally unnatural to walk on a glass surface 1,122 feet off the ground. He doesn't want me to be a wuss either!
2. Stas is fantastically spontaneous. He likes to go on trips and doesn't feel the need to overly plan them out (like I would). He gets an idea and makes it happen. I rarely have ideas, but when I do I then spend so much time analyzing/planning/deciding that they never formulate into much. Luckily Stas has inspired in me a "just enjoy the ride" sort of attitude and we have a fantastic time exploring a new city or new event together. In the last year he has surprised me with a trip to Texas over Easter, a trip to New England, a trip to Niagara Falls & Toronto, a visit to the US Open and a trip up to State College, PA for a Penn State football game. I truly admire Stas's passion; he creates an idea and then follows through with so much excitement you can't help but want to be a part of it!
3. Stas is the funniest person I know. Hands down. I always tell him that this is his best quality. Regardless of my mood he can always make me laugh. The examples here could go on for pages, but I'll just share one. I was trying to make a PB&J sandwich (big surprise) but could not find the peanut butter. Seriously, it is very hard to loose things in our little kitchen. I had searched everywhere and was absolutely frustrated; I was about sure that I had lost my mind. Then Stas, who had been in the kitchen with me the whole time, asks me "what are you looking for?" Seriously kid, you're asking me that as your last contact with me before I plunge into insanity. As I turn around from what feels like my millionth search in the pantry I see Stas balancing the jar of peanut butter on his head. Just try to imagine that! I burst out laughing immediately and still do every time that I think of it. He's my favorite comedian.
And there you have it ladies and gentleman, three simple reasons why I love my husband.
Three years down, and eternity to go. I can't wait!!! I love you Stas and happy anniversary!!