Three years ago today, on a covered bridge in Schoharie, NY, Nena Helene Vedder became Nena Helene Thompson. It was a beautiful day that I’ll always remember as one of the best days in my life. Perhaps only the day Jackson William Thompson joined us bests it, in fact.

Happy anniversary, Nena. I know that I can be a challenge at times, what with all of the time on the computer, the obsessions with local foods and wines (and recently beer), and my grill-collecting tendencies. But through it all, you always support me, put up with (mostly) my quirks and genuinely seem to enjoy me most of the time.

You are an amazing wife, and equally amazing mother, and the best friend I could ask for. Thank you for being who you are. I love you.