open letter to my husband

To the guy who worked as an emu rancher and a bouncer to pay his bills after leaving the Marine Corps.
To the guy who worked construction, made pizzas, delivered chips to convenience stores, and was a tobacco rep at rodeos.
To the guy who sold real estate in the hill-country.
To the guy who worked hard for a man who seemed to be selling nothing, but did it very well.
To the guy who worked and lived in an un-air-conditioned warehouse in Bryan, Texas, breathing poisonous fumes while refinishing furniture, all while on crutches with a broken femur.
To the guy who sold cars on an asphalt parking lot in Texas in August while wearing a suit an tie.
To the guy who worked for a mean, rat-bastard, crooked boss while trying to sell lumber.
To the guy who worked his way up from the bottom in an industry that goes completely against his nature. Sitting in a cubicle taking phone calls all day while having to deal with one incompetent, crazy boss after another.
To the guy who worked two jobs so I could stay home with our babies.
To the guy who kept his chin up and still managed to shine in one horrible work situation after another. Never missing a day, never late once, always doing more than was expected.
To the guy who finally caught a break and was recognized for his work ethic, intelligence and character.
To the guy who is now high in demand, breaking hearts as he climbs the corporate ladder.
You wouldn't be who you are today without your history.
Congratulations on your new job.
I'm so proud of you.