Today is my husband’s birthday, and for a couple years now (since he turned 30), we’ve had an ongoing joke about him being “old”. Obviously, we are joking, and if I am really honest, I am very much looking forward to my 30’s.
Today we celebrate Robbie, though, and I thought it would be nice to write a little about why I think he’s so wonderful.
Robbie and I first became good friends when we did our Phase 1 together about 5 years ago. We had fun together and had similar interests. I don’t think we were on each others’ radars prior to that. (Disclaimer: there was a brief moment on my DTS when Robbie was emceeing something or speaking at Live, and I remember thinking, “Hmm…he’s a really good communicator. That’s kind of attractive…” The thought didn’t go anywhere from there for another year, but alas, I had to fess up to that early attraction).
As he started liking me, praying and processing with God about me and walking that out, I got to observe more and more of his character, which pretty quickly led me to liking him, praying and processing with God about him and walking that out. We were staffing a school together, and as such, we were spending quite a bit of time around each other. I remember at one point through the journey thinking this was so hard and crying out to God about how challenging it all was. God quickly reminded me about how I had asked for a “cool story” and cool stories aren’t easy.
When he asked me to be his girlfriend at the end of that year, I was so sure of what God had spoken and done through the whole process, and I honestly hope that for everyone getting into a relationship. We dated for a year, got engaged on our 1-year anniversary and married 3 months later. To say the rest is history would be entirely false, though, because I’ve learned more and grown to love Robbie more since this. What everyone says about loving someone more down the line than when you’re first together or first married – truth. Absolute gold. Hold onto that.
Over these nearly 3 years that we’ve been married, Robbie has been a wonderful husband. He is absolutely my best friend in the world, and we have so much fun together. I could list all the incredible husband qualities and such, but I want to speak more to what I observe of him and his leadership and influence.
Robbie is an incredible communicator. Some could say I am biased, but honestly, I think most people would agree. He’s clever and funny but packs a punch with his words that comes from an understanding and revelation of God. Sometimes when he speaks at church or on the base, I am blown away and find myself thinking, “Yep…that’s my husband.” #proudwife
Robbie is a man of perseverance and dedication. When we first got together, he had just taken on his role that he’s still doing now as the Creative Communications Leader. When he took it on, it was him and one other person. Now, if you know anything about that department from all that we put out on social media, websites, growth, etc. – Robbie’s had a part of that. Obviously he has this amazing team around him, but I think he really has stuck it out, gone the hard yards and believed for incredible results, which we are seeing. #proudwife
Robbie is a personal/relational leader. He’s not fluffy by any means – he will speak truth, even if it’s sometimes challenging for people, but they hear him because they know how much he cares for them. They know he is with them in the journey. I love watching Robbie lead his team, and even as I have started leading people, I’ve often looked at him for a model. He’s stirred up longevity and commitment in his staff, and he is a great vision caster. The way he goes after people and helps them see what can be is incredible. #proudwife
I really hit the jackpot with this man of mine, and I feel so privileged that I get to watch him become a dad this year. I know that he will be an incredible one because he cares so much about seeking after all God has for him and for us as a family. I can’t wait for the next 32 years of Robbie Willingham! Happy Birthday babe!
Great opening photo! I’d agree with all the great things you said about Robbie #proudroomie