I look at the pictures of Gayle and me on our wedding day, January 20, 1973 and we look like kids! That is because we were. Nineteen years old and knew very little about life yet but jumped in to learn together. There has been very much adventure for us to live through. Three children, our first born daughter was a month early weighing in at only 3lbs 9oz. Jennifer has grown up to be our "Four-Ten Jen." Our second daughter was always a charmer. Full of energy and life. She has a can do spirit which is great because she also has some serious learning disabilities. Our third born is a son born six years after our second, so our son has three mom’s! Two older sisters who love him and looked out for him and a real mom.  There have been six different residences over the years. We enjoyed all of them while we lived there. There have been ups and downs, many opportunities to grow as individuals and as a couple. I went to college at 25 after our first two were born. I worked full-time and went to school full-time and Gayle held down the fort. Here we are now only 54 years old, and empty nesters living in Florida. The amazing thing to me is after all the years, good times, hurtful times and everything in between, we are still crazy about each other. We are best friends, spiritual adventure partners, and lovers. There is no one we would rather be with than each other. So, I thank the Lord for His work in both of us, and for allowing me to marry and stay with the bride of my youth. She is a rare and precious treasure and I’m glad she is mine! Thank you Gayle for loving me and being my partner for life, I wouldn’t want to do it without you!!

 

Someone asked me what I can attribute our longevity too. I always have a couple answers for that. Work on yourselves, become the best husband or wife you can while letting your partner do the same. Unsolicited advise is a killer of relationships, don’t give it unless asked your opinion. Create a safe environment where you are loved and accepted as you are with room for growth at your own pace. Do your best to have a living relationship with the Lord where He can show you what you need to change.

 

Scott