I have the greatest husband in the world. I know you may disagree, you think you have the prize mate, but alas, you are decieved - he married me!

I am so blessed to have such an amazing partner. Andre' will do anything for us. He works hard to provide for us, thankfully, he has a job he absoultely loves. But he puts in long hours to keep his clients up and running. At home he loves to hang out with us, he is helping Preston and the boys build a skateboard ramp - we are all very excited about it! Of course he is totally wrapped around Catherine's little finger! And the greatest testimony to what a great daddy he is  - the kids can't wait for their turn to spend a day at work with him. He is so kind and loving to them, and so much more patient than I am. I hit the jackpot!

There were some concerns though, mainly, what would I do without him? Last August Preston went into our room when Andre' was sleeping and came out very scared. "Mom, Dad stopped breathing for a few seconds when I was in there. Is he ok? Does that happen a lot?" Well, actually son, yes it does, several times a night. I was either awakened by his outrageously loud snoring, or by the silence, far more horrifying, of him not breathing. Do I nudge him and risk waking him up,? His sleep is so restless, I hate to disturb him. Will he wake up? Then the sharp realization that he was not breathing would alert his body and he would gasp for air and resume snoring. He slept late nearly every day. We blamed it on his work schedule or late nights chatting or playing computer games. But deep down, I knew differently and I was afraid. Worried he would develop diabetes that is so prevelant in his family, afraid one night I would not be awake to nudge him so he could take a breath and I would wake up a widow. Occasionally I would share my concerns, but mostly I pushed my fears aside and continued to sleep the sleep of a new parent. Not fully asleep, always just at the edge of consiousness, just in case I was needed.

Andre' and I celebrated 15 wonderful years of marriage last August. We were able to get away for a night and his incredible mom kept the kiddos. We drove for hours, just talking, reminiscing, renewing our promises to one another. In the course of our conversations I shared what Preston had witnessed just days before we left. It was as if a light clicked - he realized I was not making this up, and he had frightened his son. It was time to make some changes.

I am so proud of him! It has been a challenge to put aside our favorite junk foods and start feeding our family healthier - and we are not perfect, but I would say we have made a ton of progress! Congratulations Andre'! You did good babe!

Before - taken June 2007

After - Taken April 20, 2008

We both sleep easier now! His sleep apnea is completely gone. He does not snore! He wakes up refreshed and energetic, ready for a new day. And I am not afraid.

Andre', Thank you honey, for taking such good care of the man I love. Yours, Jes