I want someone who is loyal to me and loyal to his friends," Chelsea Handler wrote in a

letter to herself "a couple of years ago," before beginning a relationship with boyfriend Jo Koy

The former Chelsea Lately host, 47, posted a sweet message for her

boyfriend's 51st birthday Thursday, sharing a lengthy list of qualities she

hoped to find in a partner that was written before she and Koy started a romantic relationship.

The two comedians went public with their relationship last September after being friends first for nearly 20 years.

Handler asked for a partner that is "strong physically and emotionally.

She also said she was seeking someone who didn't walk away from a "risk," but would also be able to "put me in my place."

"I never thought I even wanted someone to look after me this way, but I do.

You're the best boyfriend I've ever had. (Shout out to all my exes)," she said.