Je Taime

James got home from New York Saturday night.

When you are engaged 5 days seems like a year to be apart.

And he leaves again today for 8 more days.

I can hardly stand it.

But then I realize how blessed I am to have someone like James...

even if he does leave me to address, stuff envelopes, food taste, configure seating charts etc. etc.

Two nights ago I spent my first night in our all grown up apartment.

The same apartment that we will share in just 31 days.

The apartment we are sure to have lots of laughs, love, and certainly newlywed arguments.

And I can hardly wait.

While unpacking I was reminded of how much this boy loves me.

I came across my "James" folder and nearly fell off my seat.

I haven't saved everything.

But these notes made me tear up.

We had such a fun beginning and it just keeps getting better.

My favorite one is that that reads "I promise not to keep you up until 4 am again."

Or maybe it's the one from the bagels he left for the newsroom.

I can't choose.

But just as I was looking at this photo and remembering how wonderful our relationship has been

a knock came at the door.

I knew James was dropping in to say hi.

I was in my nasty cut off sweat pants that are covered in paint.

Makeup from a day ago.

And strawberry all down my shirt.

It was not a pretty sight.

And then he handed over a pretty little box...

 With these in it.

I was so excited!

Doesn't that name look so good?

He apologized for leaving me again and I told him that I would probably forgive him.

I had told him that I wanted a new set long ago.

I have had my same set since the dark ages.

And he remembered.

I love when that happens.

It was one of the sweetest things he's ever done for me.

My old set is barely even functionable.

I don't take very good care of my books.

So James proceeded to give me a lesson on how to break in books.

He's good for me like that.

I laughed.

And then we laughed at ourselves for being zoobies.

And it was perfect.

Today I take him and Lizzie to the airport.

The Barkers are headed to France.

I wish I could go.

Mostly I wish I could go with my Fiance.

Who speaks French.

To the city of love.

But I am also pretty relieved I am not.

So much to do for the big day.

I am going to miss him more than he knows.

(and I think he's going to miss me more than he's willing to let on.

But we just let him think he's tough)

Bon Voyage Barkers.

Take care of James for me.

Make sure he doesn't fall for a Paris hottie.

I have kind of big plans for us upon his return.

Je Taime