You Smell Gross.

Ok, so I could lead you to believe that being married is the most blissful thing ever...and for the most part, it really is. However, anytime you face an adventure like we're facing, you start to learn some new not-so-pleasant things about your significant other.

Normally, I like Patrick's musky "I just worked out (insert Tim The Toolman Taylor grunt her)" smell. Tuesday night was different. So Patrick comes home after a grueling cardio session that lasted nearly the entire "Biggest Loser" 2-hour episode. When he walks in, he didn't smell like your traditional 6th grader without deodorant. No, he took it to an entirely different level. Despite the simmering spaghetti sauce and wheat noodles I had cooking in the kitchen, all I could smell was him...and he smelled gross. Gross like if you got caught next to him on public transportation, you'd find a reason to get off at the next stop even if it meant walking the remaining 2 miles in your blister-causing Nine West heels and stylish trench coat in 12 degree weather that includes wintry mix. Yeah, it was that unpleasant. So, how exactly do I bring this up? Do I flat out tell him that he smells stinky? Suggest a shower? Allow him to eat dinner sans de-funking? My options were varied and what happened next could have caused WWIII in some homes. "You smell gross. Like really gross," I blurted. As the words flew out of my mouth, I braced myself for his sweet face to turn sour. God bless his ever-loving heart. He looked at me debating if his feelings should be hurt. He decided not and plopped down on our couch ready to eat dinner. "Do you need help bringing it in? No. Ok. I'll have water with my meal." What could I do but smile at my husband's big heart and silly nature. You really can't help but love him. He had worked hard at the gym and was ready to eat a delicious dinner with his wife. I rewarded him by suffering through the smell which probably made me eat less and subsequently febreeze the couch. It probably needed it anyway. That man continues to teach me valuable lessons about life and love--how lucky I am.

Patrick's level of commitment to this challenge is unmatched as far as I am concerned. He's holding his ground and he's making the most out of it. He was rewarded last Sunday at his unofficial weigh-in. I will venture to say that this weekend will prove to be even more of a gold medal moment. Watch out fellow contestants--my stinky husband (and his very tolerant wife) will be pulling out a Victory for the kids.