Dear ER...

Well, babycakes, it looks like we made it.

I never would have imagined a few years ago that we'd even know each other before I'd gained more experience with your type, and yet it's already been a whole year that we've been together. I'll admit, it's been a struggle. For example, today's debauchery - had it happened in our honeymoon phase - would surely have forced me to totally break up with you. This being our anniversary, however, I'll let it slide.

In spite of your negative qualities, you have introduced some wonderful people into my life, friends that I hope to still have in my life even long after I've given you your sweater back. You know I'm only with you because I love your friends, right?

Yeah, yeah, I know. I'll never leave you. This is probably the most.... wait. Lemme think about that.

Nope, it's not even close to the most destructive relationship I've ever been in.

Still.... you stinker, you.

So here's to Us. Here's to you challenging me to the absolute end of my wits, to teaching me how to say Fuck You in the smartest and most polite manner, to failed IV attempts, to the subtle application of empathic hands, to knowing better, knowing when, knowing how, learning, growing, moving forward.

Next year at this time, you will no doubt insist that I take the next step in our relationship: triage. I have to admit, I'm dreading it. But I know the next year will afford us more opportunities to grow together as a couple, giving me the strength I'll need to take on your most heinous attributes.

We're far from Bogart and Bacall, but we're not exactly Sid and Nancy, either.

Just make sure you get that nasty stuff on your dick checked out. We can work around it as long as you're honest with me.

Love,
Steph, RN