He Had Me

People may not know this about me, but I am drawn to the nerdy, artistic type. Have been all my life. There's just something about a man who is oddly, uniquely, and wonderfully geeky and who can express himself through the arts. I just happened to land myself that kind of man, though many people may not know it.

My husband is a surprising combination of funny, intellect, sarcasm, wisdom, cynicism, compassion, and creativity. Only few people have been exposed to the artistic talents that this man has. But, ah, lucky you, I am going to share a few of his hidden talents.

On my twenty-sixth birthday, the very month we started dating, Jason drew me this picture.

The moment I laid my eyes on it, I knew I could love this man. See the detail in the picture? The boy pays attention to details and recognizes beauty. Besides, I am a sucker for handmade gifts.

After four months of dating, Jason drew me this picture.

It's still one of my favorite pictures to date. Mind you, we've never actually sat on a swing together, but don't you think love is like that? At least new love is - swinging in a tree with your initials carved into it.

And though he does not draw much any more, I still have other treasures to share.

I'm not certain of the impetus for the following drawing, but I find it striking with its use of color and diagonal pencil strokes. It makes me want to wish upon a star.

The next picture was given to me by his mother at Easter. It was a piece Jason created in high school. He said it was garbage because of a minor mistake he made on it during its creation, but I could not bare to throw it away. I found it interesting, imperfections and all.

It hangs in my office at work and reminds me of the incredible patience he has.

I am trying to encourage him to do another piece for me - my favorite portrait of us from our wedding. I know he has it in him. I just hope he's willing to bring it to fruition.

"Hide not your talents. They for use were made. What's a sundial in the shade?" -Benjamin Franklin