Tammy & Bryan Reichenbach
In 2004, I was a single mom of two beautiful children - the loves of my life. My life consisted of working and spending time with my kids. I really didn't have time for much else.
I would occasionally pass Bryan in the hall at work, but I really didn't know much about him, I didn't even know his name. I would sometimes be involved in conversations with him and other co-workers, but never really talked to him.
One evening, he called me to his office. I could not imagine what he needed to speak to me about, so assuming it was work-related, I grabbed a pen and paper and went to his office. When I got there, he nervously asked if I would be interested in a movie and dinner. Being even more nervous than he was, I said yes and as I turned to leave his office I said "Thank you." Really? Thank you? I was so embarrassed that I actually thanked him for asking me on a date.
He called me to make arrangements for our date and I had to turn him down. It was the day before Mother's Day and I wanted to spend the weekend with my kids. He understood. He spent some time with his mom that day and we made plans for the following weekend.
Our first date was wonderful. We saw a movie and then went to dinner. We spent that evening talking. We didn't talk about my problems or how hard it was raising two children alone, we just talked.
We continued to see each other quite a lot. My children adored him from day one. All of our dates, from the second date on, were family dates with the kids rather than just he and I and he never complained.
Later that year, Bryan's mom was diagnosed with lung cancer. He was trying to build a relationship with me and at the same time be there for his family. He managed to do both. He stayed by his mom's side and I saw what a loving, caring, beautiful person he was.
Bryan proposed to me on New Year's Eve. I didn't hesitate for a second and said yes. We were so happy, but I knew he needed to be with his family. He was able to tell his mom about our engagement before she passed away the following week.
As our hearts began to heal from the loss of his mom, we started to plan our wedding. While planning our future and new life together, we faced yet another hardship. Bryan was laid off from his job and our wedding had to be postponed.
The next few months were very difficult but we supported each other and stayed together. We focused on what was important, our love and the love of our families. Bryan eventually found another job and in December we were finally married.
As we celebrated our sixth wedding anniversary this past December, I realized how lucky I am to be married to my best friend, my hero, a great husband and father - the love of my life.
Bryan, when I look back to that evening you first asked me to dinner, "thank you" is exactly what I should've said to you then, and "thank you" is what I say to you now for making my life and our family complete. Happy Valentine's Day! I love you.
Tammy Reichenbach