I grew up in a pretty shitty home. Isolation, verbal and emotional abuse, and being responsible for my younger sisters were common. I got married at 19, and made my escape.

The man I married isn't always the most affectionate creature. He is content to just say "I love you" and call it good. I know he loves me unconditionally, but it's nice to see the gestures that accompany that.

A couple weeks ago, I got frustrated with the lack of romantic gestures, so I let him know what I wanted. At first, it didn't seem like he was going to listen to or use any of my suggestions.

I've gotten into makeup big time over the past several months, and I have been asking for higher-end products and a place to do my makeup that didn't rely on three crappy light sources. Last night, while I was in my night class, my husband drove to our nearest store, bought a floor-length mirror and the stuff to hang it. He got home and rearranged the living room, put my desk over by the window, hung the mirror next to it, and moved my makeup over to the new battlestation. All while I was texting him. This man can't keep a surprise to save his life, but he managed to keep me in the dark for several weeks, and then implement it in an instant while I am gone. He also encouraged me to buy a higher-end makeup item yesterday, then spontaneously took me out to dinner tonight.

He is amazing always, I just forgot in the midst of the daily grind. When I asked him to step up and be romantic, despite our small budget, he stepped up. He went above and beyond, listening to what I wanted, even though I didn't think he was. Marrying this man was the best decision ever, and I am so lucky to have him!