Every Little Ting

Jeff had knee surgery this last Wednesday following a wake boarding incident in Lake Powell.
He would like it be known, however, that he did not crash.
Rather something went awry inside his knee while landing a jump.
It's true. I saw it happen.

The drugs he's been taking as a result of the surgery have a noticeable emotional effect on him.
He has extreme highs and extreme lows.
He's very needy and loving.
He made up a funny story about sock gnomes that sneak around our house.
He told me today that I had never looked more beautiful (it was NOT my best day).
And he continually hugs me, laying his head on my chest.

It's all been rather enjoyable for me -- except when he's in pain and sad.
It also has reminded me of another time when Jeff had knee surgery.
Stick with me, this is a good story.

The year was 2006.
I had known Jeff for a few months and we'd become good friends, flirting endlessly.
But...he still hadn't asked me out and it was killing me.
Of course I was playing hard to get, but usually that made boys ask so I was perplexed.

He had a knee surgery scheduled in Chicago, and prior to leaving he said, "You know, I'd like to take you out when I get back. What do you think?"
I casually said yes, trying hard to not show much excitement.

He left for surgery and while he was away my family received terrible news.
My dad had cancer.

Jeff called me that night and he asked how I was.
I told him what was going on and how I was scared.

He was rather doped at the time and in his best Bob Marley accent said, "Mallory, as the great Bob Marley would say, don't worry about a ting. Cause every little ting is gonna be alright."

And you know what, it has been. That's when I knew he was a keeper.