November is a great time to reflect on all the reasons I have to be thankful. I decided it is also a great time to get back here to my neglected blog.

Day One – I am so thankful for my wonderful husband, Mr. Rafael Soriano!

Yes, this is a real picture. I took it this morning. He actually left the house like this. Yes, that is a real mustache – it’s not glued on! He grew it all month and shaved off the rest of the beard today. No, I do not understand why! I think it’s a dare from the guys 🙂

Mustache aside, Rafael is the most amazing husband. Ever. A story to prove my point: I was feeling frumpy after a long day of maternity leave. I hadn’t gotten a chance to shower and probably smelled like sour milk. I was wearing the same pajamas he saw me in that morning and there was not a drop of makeup on my face. He was telling me about his day at work and my mind began wandering. I mumbled something about what a shock it must be to come home to a disheveled mom when he’s surrounded by fit, trendy chicks all day long. He looked me in the eye and said,

“Why would I go out for hamburgers when I have steak at home?” and then swept me up into his arms and kissed me.

Not only is that just an adorable thing to hear him say, but I know in my heart that he truly means it. Rafael is loyal and committed to me and our marriage. He draws his strength from the Lord, which is how I can be so certain. I know I am unlovable at times. I know we will have difficult times in our lives. But the source of love Rafa shows me isn’t rooted in anything I do. He’s not looking outward; he’s looking upward. His example of love is in the love that Jesus has shown him, and all of us. That’s love that will last forever and I’m so thankful that my husband and our marriage is rooted in it.