In Praise of My Most Superb Boyfriend

Rejoice, for a happier Rachel Sego has returned refreshed from a weekend of frolicking and fun. And even though I still really ought to go on a vacation, I think that I'm feeling rested. Let's see how I feel on Friday, though.
Here is the big news-- which, really shouldn't be that big of a deal, but believe me, it is. I hereby publicly announce that I have a legitimate boyfriend now, and he is super. Hi Ray! Are you embarrassed yet? Yesterday Ray invited me to his parents' house for dinner. On the way in, he said the 'rents didn't know our news yet. But they knew within about fifteen seconds of my arrival, because Ray shouted, "Rachel Sego is my girlfriend." Or something like it. I turned red, I'm sure, but I have to admit, it made me stand a little taller every time he said it. And I thought it was funny that the volume of his voice rose above normal level every time he mentioned it. I am filled with pride.
This is the funniest part of the whole thing-- Ray and I are the same as we've been, I think. I like him. A lot. He is wonderful and smart and interesting. He is nice to me and likes to go to consignment stores. He takes me to Sweet Tomatoes. He is a great kisser. He's going places with his life.
So before this gets mushy, I'll stop. But the point is, I knew all this before Ray got the label. But I like his label, too. And I like the way the label throws other people off a bit. After updating my status on Facebook, I've had several comments from friends, and even more personal messages and emails from people. There are soooo many who keep asking if this is legit (it is). I guess everyone just can't believe it took so long for me to have a bonafide boyfriend. My college chum Petty offered to send a threatening email to him, suggesting that I have a posse of thugs to break knee caps if I get heartbroken. Really a strange sentiment, but sweet in a weird way. Weirder still is my family's reaction. My sister is calling people like her fiance and my aunt, saying, "Guess what! Rachel has a boyfriend! Isn't that so cute? Yes, that's right. He's the first one. Yes, that's right. She's 27. Well, it only took her going out with 88 other guys before she found one who likes her enough to be her boyfriend. Isn't that sweet?"
Anyway, this post is not to put pressure on the bf, who also happens to be one of my closest friends. I'm just saying I'm happy. I'm lucky. And I invite you all to be happy with me.