Anniversary: Love, Growth, and Resilience
As February 20th has arrived, so has another anniversary for my partner and I.
I find myself taking stock of the incredible journey Matthew and I have shared. Our relationship has been a tapestry of challenges, victories, and quiet moments that have strengthened not just our bond but also our individual selves. We have longbeen a testament to the beauty of relationships that allow for growth, self-discovery, and healing.
When I look at Matthew, I see someone who has stood by me through the storms of life. He is the kind of person who leaves work to care for the kids when I’m overwhelmed, who brings a gentle steadiness to every situation, and who never raises his voice but always lifts others up. In him, I’ve found a partner who creates space for me to explore and embrace every facet of who I am—mental health struggles, physical challenges, and all. I never thought I would come across another human I would come to treasure so much!
Alex and partner Matt steal another kiss during their wedding in Casper.
Building Our Family, Building Ourselves
Over the years, our family has grown, and so have we. Parenting isn’t for the faint of heart, and yet Matthew and I have navigated it together, learning from each other and from the tiny humans we’re raising. Our kids remind us of the joy of discovery and the importance of meeting life with curiosity and compassion. Our pets are wee reflections of us, so loving (and hungry)!
Everything, Everywhere, All at Once has a famous line: “In another life, I would have loved to do laundry and taxes with you.” This rings around in my skull when I start getting to deep into my feelings, serving as a polite reminder that I really am in a great spot. I have the peace I have dreamed of, which is oft overlooked in the mundane; boredom is contentment, it is peace. Matthew has a favorite line in a Gang of Youths song (Do Not Let Your Spirit Wane): “It's boring but in the most exquisite of ways, No carcinogenic and humdrum malaise. And it's strange, all the things that I've run from, are the things that completeness could come from.”
Through the chaos and beauty of it all, I’ve realized something profound: the person you choose to share your life with is more than a partner; they’re a mirror, a co-creator, and sometimes a lifeline. Whether or not you marry them, whether your relationship fits into traditional molds or defies them entirely, what matters most is that you feel safe, loved, and supported to be your truest self!
The Role of Love in Creation
Cozykins would not exist without Matthew’s love and support. There were moments when self-doubt crept in, when the challenges of entrepreneurship as a queer business owner seemed insurmountable. In those moments, Matthew reminded me why I started Cozykins in the first place: to create something that brings joy, connection, and a sense of belonging to others.
His belief in me gave me the courage to bet on myself, even when the odds seemed stacked against me. In turn, I’ve seen him open up, embrace his own journey of self-discovery, and grow into an even more vibrant version of himself. Our love isn’t just what we’ve built together, but also about how we’ve built each other up along the way. 💖
As I reflect on our journey, I’d love to hear about yours. How have the relationships in your life—romantic, platonic, or otherwise—helped you grow? Let’s share these stories and celebrate the power of connection together. You can find Cozykins on Bluesky and Mastodon, where we’d love to hear your thoughts!
Looking Ahead
This anniversary isn’t just a milestone for Matt and I, but a warm reminder of every phase and stage of our growth together. As Cozykins approaches its own first birthday, I carry forward the lessons and love that have shaped my journey, determined to create something meaningful for everyone who crosses our path.
Here’s to love that grows, heals, and inspires.💖
