There is nothing like autumn in Minnesota.  It’s the reason we live in this part of the country. The other seasons hold their own special beauty, but fall is full of amazing colors and elements that fill the senses to capacity.  This is why we chose to be married at this time of the year.  It’s a time of splendor where God pulls out all the stops when it comes to painting the landscape.

It was 50 years ago today.  Somehow the weather wasn’t so splendid.  It was raining.  I had heard all the old wives tales about a rainy day being a good sign for a happy marriage.  Who makes up those stories anyway?  Rain has nothing to do with it.  I was a little annoyed that my special day was going to be one mad dash from house to car to church to car and to reception with hopes of not destroying the dress I had spent six months salary on.

As I looked out the window early that morning, my mind was filled with anticipation.  It didn’t matter that it was raining.  I was going to marry the only man I ever loved in a few short hours and nothing was going to spoil that.

It has been fifty years today.  The sky is a little overcast. I wonder if it will rain.

Anticipation still remains after all these years.  We have had our share of storms.  We’ve learned to tolerate some of each other’s idiosyncrasies – we ‘ve spent many days wondering if we would ever get on our feet financially – we’ve prayed together when faced with difficult decisions and health issues.  We’ve at times wondered if we would stay together forever.  We’ve had major disagreements, spats, tears, highs and lows and yet we’ve remained faithful to each other for all this time.

I am thankful to God for blessing me with such an outstanding Christian husband.  He has been my inspiration, my motivator, my encourager, my teacher, my lover, my guide and through all the rain that has fallen on us, he has been my umbrella – protecting me with his love.

Dear, Lord – You have given me one of life’s greatest gifts – a husband who loves You.  Through him, I have grown closer to You.  He has shown me how important it is to have You as the center of our lives together.  Thank you for showering me with Your love through this wonderful man.  Amen!

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY, PAUL.  I LOVE YOU YESTERDAY, TODAY AND TOMORROW.