This week, I based myself back in Santa Barbara because the extended absence from home was asking alot of Wilson, Max and Olivia. Those of you in SB know what a perfect and clear week it was up there–good for the soul to look out all the way to the islands. Great fun to be with Oma and Opa and the kids every evening after work, but I was also counting the days until Friday when I could come back and see Rudy.
In addition to seeing Rudy, I was also looking forward to being with Trish on our anniversary today. They say it’s the thought that counts, so I came in and told her that I had thought of bringing her flowers, but they aren’t allowed in the ICU. But I didn’t come in empty-handed. On the way down here I came across the perfect gift–a trophy that says “BEST WIFE” on the plaque. With great flourish, I pulled it out of the CVS bag and presented it to her. She turned it over in her hands and looked puzzled until I realized I left the price tag on it (a steal at $9.99!). Once it was removed the tears welled up in her eyes and she has been speechless since. The only sounds she’s made have been the sobs everytime she looks at me or passes by her anniversary gift. Nailed this one, baby–nothing but net!
And it doesn’t end there. While we’ll stick to our lunchtime regimen of soup in the cafeteria downstairs, I may just pamper her with extra crackers. I just need to make sure I have enough left for the big anniversary dinner splurge at Chick-Fil-A on the drive home. You better believe she can have two sides–waffle fries AND cole slaw!!!! Sorry ladies; curb your envy–this dreamboat has left port!!
Hard to believe we’ve been married 16 years. I can’t recall the course I envisioned we’d take, but so much of life is unexpected and that’s what makes it an adventure. Even when some of the adventures include gut-wrenching challenges, there is such simple joy in having a companion to walk with. We didn’t have much choice for where we could spend this anniversary, but the choice to laugh in the midst of it is one we won’t easily relinquish. So HAPPY Anniversary to us!
Rudy's Beat 
Deareat Ones,
Happy Anniversary!!!!!!
We love you what a special couple you are.
We are blessed with such a very, very extraordinary daughter in law!!!
Hugs and a special one to sweet Rudy and we pray the Lord will heal him.
Bussi Mami and Dad
Rolf and Trish, Happy Anniversary!!! I have been thinking of you today and remembering your fun wedding day! Someday I am hoping for a better honeymoon than your Hawaiian one for you. Good job on the gift, Rolf! Almost as good as those earrings you bought Trish some years back! Thanks for loving each other in words and deed.
HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!!!! You two are a couple Becca and I admire and seek to emulate in our own lives together. It’s quite a beautiful picture of marriage!
Hooray little brother…. what a catch you got! ( Maybe you can one day follow our example and make it to 20. Sibling rivalry dies hard.)
Have a SOOOPER day enjoying each other.
Happy Anniversary!! If you really want to go nuts, get a Chick-fil-a milkshake. My preference is Cookies n Cream, but they have a special Peppermint now. Enjoy!!!
I remember when Doug and I were going to get married and we were all hanging out at McDonald’s with you guys, and I asked you: “So what do we do when we’re old after we get married?” And I also babysat Max and Wilson one year and you guys went to get Krispy Kremes. Oh the good old days. I do see a theme of food running through here though.
Much love to you both. Happy Anniversary and many more to come!
Happy 16th, Rolf and Trish! Marriage is such a trip! Hope you have many more great anniversaries to celebrate! Enjoy your visit with Grandma Jo! Dad and I will be thinking of you as we veg in front of ESPN!
Rudy, way to be infection-free! Now we just need to get you tube-free (I feel a song coming on….Tube Free, as free as you can be! (Sung to the tune of Born Free). Anyway, we’re prayin’ for those drains to dry up before Monday!! Love you, little guy!
Happy Sweet sixteen!
Love the photo of Rudy snuggling the bear.
Hope this turns out to be a great weekend for you all and Rudy’s fluids are where they should be.
Still praying as always.
Hugs and kisses.
What a gift you are to all of us as you celebrate your anniversary. God knew you would need each other and Rudy and the kids would need you too. Gosh He’s a wise Guy! Praying for you and loving you for news every day. xxooR
Happy happy 16th anniversary my friends. You are such a great couple….. We all should be taking notes from you. I love watching the love you both share and the laughter too. I hope you have a great night and wish you all the happiness. love ya Glad Rudy is doing so good also. We will kep praying. See you tomorrow. love the Chessmars.
Happy Anniversary Rolf and Trish…
What a special couple you are! Rudy is so lucky to have you as parents!
Have fun on your anniversary. You deserve it!
Much love,
Lisa Hauck and Paul Borkovich
Hey Rolf,
You set a high bar, but you’re still my inspiration! (Dave)
My question is, do you still do your “Shamu and Trainer” show with Trish? When we first saw that beautiful duet of body and spirit in Palm Springs, we knew you two had a powerful destiny together…
Happy Anniversary, you wild things!
Love,
Dave and Kim Zovak
Happy Happy anniversary!! Isn’t it great that we don’t know what’s in store for us around the corner? we can just take each day with it joys and sorrows and challenges….together!
of course, laughter always helps – and you’ve got a corner on that….
love you….Linda
Happy Anniversary (a bit late)! Glad you’re finding the bits of joy that are to be found along the way.