50 Years Ago

Fifty years ago today, I started out on the biggest adventure of my life, backed up by the crew in this picture. I had big plans for today, but as the other half of the team had a better place to be, the anniversary trip to somewhere really cool and the reunion with all these supporters went by the wayside four years ago. I can't complain, though. I had 46 years with a faithful, hilarious, supportive, exasperating, generous husband who introduced me to fabulous people and places I never would have encountered otherwise.

I never really got it when people would say at funerals, "He'll always be with you." Now I do. Honestly, my husband is so much a part of me that even after he's been gone for the last four years, I feel like he just stepped into the next room. I suppose in one way, he has, and I'll catch up to him when the time is right.

I debated writing this post because I didn't want to be all maudlin, but I'm a sucker for significant milestones and since most of the bridal party is still around, I wanted to express my sincere appreciation for all the ways everyone in this picture has enriched, and continues to enrich, life, not just mine but so many others as well. So thanks to my husband for the two kids, two grandkids, the career and the travel, the abundant laughter, and his example of faith and courage and resilience. And thanks to all of you who were there for us fifty years ago and continue to be there for me now. God is good.

June 28,1975