24 years ago...

Today is the 24th anniversary of my marriage to Carol.  This really was a great time in my life.  My dating relationship with Carol was a whirlwind.  As soon as I went out with Carol, I had made up my mind up that I was marrying her.  I proposed in 4 months and we were married 6 months later. (Carol HAD to have 6 months to plan the wedding!)  I would not recommend this for other people, but I think it worked out pretty well for us.

Last week, I saw a post a friend made about finding your soul mate.  The general gist is that your spouse is not your soul mate, only God can fulfill that role.  (If you feel so compelled click here for the article).  Although, I agree with this article, I think Carol was probably as close as it comes.  The writer says, "But if I hadn't met <my spouse>, I think my life would still be pretty good."  That certainly doesn't ring true for me.  I mean, would I even had a relationship with Christ if I hadn't met Carol?  I have so much to thank this woman for, probably no exaggeration to say everything.

This time of year, Facebook is full of wedding shots as people celebrate their June weddings.  So, to keep up with everyone, here is ours 24 years ago today:

That was a great day, probably the best in my life.  But, I sure am happier looking at pictures from the next day.  This is a shot I took when we first arrived at the hotel in Barbados.  Doesn't that smile make you happy? or, is it just me?

BME (Best Mom Ever)

I recall one day, many years ago, in the YMCA's locker room talking with Carol about her lovely children.  I asked what she had planned for the afternoon and she said she needed to get home before her daughter got home from school.  That her daughter was having a difficult time adjusting to high school and needed someone to listen and guide her through the first difficult year as a freshman.  

I thought to myself, what a wonderful, loving, caring Mom she is and how lucky her daughter was to have such a Mom.

Linda Schultz