Silver & Gold

Today is our 25th wedding anniversary.

Many years ago I was a single mom raising 2 little boys aged 2 and 7 yrs old. I refused to date at the time. I was working and keeping those boys in line (lol). My cousin and her husband decided I needed a date so they fixed a blind date. I refused. Determined, they set up another date for us to meet at a car race. The day of the date, I cancelled again. Another month passed and by this time my aunt was in on the conspiracy. So I agreed. They took us to a local pizza shop and then to the movies. He was smitten (so he says) and I was cautious.
Time moved on and we continued to date. Life was busy and we found time to "tie the knot."

The DH took on the responsibility of two little boys who were abandoned by their "real" father and he jumped right into parenthood. He hung in there with football practice, swim meets, camping, fishing, church activities. He understood little boys and their antics. Rocks thrown to see who could throw the farthest only to accidently break a car window. Tools that the boys were not to touch mysteriously disappeared, only to be found in the yard when the snow melted. Toasters, drills etc were torn apart to "see how they worked" (the eldest son was responsible for that little antic). Sometimes the DH just shook his head, smiled and said, "boys will be boys."

Twenty-three years ago on this very day (our anniversary) our first daughter was born. Life had it's ups and downs (as every married couple). He worked a day job and took on side jobs in the evenings to make ends meet. Our last baby was born 17 yrs ago.
We endured financial hardship and a boat load of medical issues; Asthma, mono, flu, ear infections, sports injuries, surgeries etc. Juggling school activities, finances, work, kid issues etc were a challenge but we muddled through it.
Times were tough and we would overcome one obstacle only to face more.

We have been very blessed.

Although none of the children read this blog, I hope they know how very proud we are of them and their accomplishments. Each one of them has been blessed with a gift/talent and they are loved unconditionally. This also applies to the "new" family members.

As I reflect over the past 25 years I wonder how time flew by so quickly. We've learned a few things in the past 25 yrs.
Life is too short and the clock is ticking. Don't sweat the small stuff.
Laughter really is the best medicine.

To the hubby,
Happy Anniversary! God willing, I will be wishing you the same for the next 25 years:).

p.s. I've had an announcement that has been kept underwraps. Our eldest son and daughter-in-law are expecting their first child. Little Madeleine will be making her appearance into the world sometime in August. And so begins the next chapter.