June 1, 1973
June 1, 2013
Forty years ago today I was lucky enough to marry a man who became my partner in love and life. He is my rock, my anchor when things are bumpy and my encourager when times are difficult, he is my everything. To say I feel blessed and lucky is not adequate, I don’t have the words to truly express my gratitude that God sent me Michael.
I think we are somewhat an anomaly, while you certainly hear about forty years of marriage, and beyond, you don’t often find forty years of what we have shared. I can’t believe that many years have passed, I remember our first date like it was yesterday. We went to the movie and if you are of a like age you will remember Ryan O’Neal and Ali MacGraw’s Love Story, considered a box office phenomenon at the time. After the movie we (not ready for our time together to be over) played miniature golf on Kickapoo in Shawnee, America. I remember seeing my BFF there and she had so many questions about Mike. If you grew up in our city in the 70’s, you understand cruising The Poo, and yes Mike and I cruised in his red and white Impala. It was a wonderful evening, the first of many.
Wedding anniversaries are special because they make us remember the vows we shared and the commitments we made, we can and should reflect on the blessings we’ve received, the memories we have collected and the love that started it all. We have movie and a dinner planned for this evening; our real celebration begins in a few days in Florida with our children and grands. There will be new memories made and much love to be shared. I know we can’t have forty more but we are going to give it a try.
Family 
Congratulations! I smiled when you mentioned Mike’s red & white Chevy. Funny how one single image … or several moving ones… can resurrect the past to live alongside the present. Best wishes on forty more. And in the meantime, hope you enjoy a wonderful movie & dinner date… and a grand time on vacation. Making memories and relishing the moment with loved ones is what life is all about. Love you both.
Judy and Mike It doesn’t seem like you have been married 40 years. Don and I went to your wedding. what a wonderful day. Congratulations and I know you will have many more. Love both of you. Have fun in Florida!!!
This is the first time I’ve heard the “first date” story. Tonight will you cruise the Poo again?
Your marriage is amazing! God definitely gave you each other and has blessed your lives together. HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!