love

i love a good love story.

and really, a love story written by your parents??

that's a great love story!

since i can never remember all the little details, i had my mama write it out for ya.

so here she is, my guest columnist, my mom....

Well Traci........you asked so here is the story of dad and my dating and engagement.
Our first date came a long time after our relationship began. Our crushes began when our family moved next door to the DenBleykers in 1954. When we actually
began dating it was so good. As time went on, we both dated others and it became an on-again off-again relationship. This continued for several years.
On February 14th, 1966 he proposed and I accepted. However, I felt his heart was not really into getting married and maybe he had proposed just because it was time. Soon came to see, as you will, that was not the case. In May I broke our engagement and moved with Nancy Troupe to Denver where her Fiance' was stationed a Lowery Air Force Base.
We rented an apartment and had no telephone. Vern learned of our landlords phone # and called very late on May29th. Instead of taking the call there, I called him back from a pay phone down the street. He assured me he loved me and wanted to marry me. I loved him so very much and wanted to go home and marry him immediately! However, by this time I was no longer sure if this was God's plan for our lives.
After hanging up I walked back to the apartment very confused. I got down on my knees at my bedside and prayed for wisdom and guidance. I was on my knees for close to 3 hours. While still on my knees, at 3AM our doorbell rang. I looked out of the window and there stood my love! That sight is still vivid in my mind. He was wearing tan cords and a yellow polo shirt. God's answer was pretty clear! We spent the rest of the night talking and by morning we planned to move our wedding date, formerly set for December, up to July 22nd. (1966)
Vern went home and made the arrangements with the church and reception hall. I bought my wedding dress ($25) and Nancy made a bridesmaid dress for me to wear in her wedding. We sent the same fabric home and mom made the other dresses for our attendants.
Here we are 45 years later and continue to love each other more and more as time goes by. We have had some trying times. A good marriage takes love, understanding, forgiveness, and a close walk with our Lord. God has blessed us far beyond what we deserve (Ephesians 3:20). He is faithful. Our prayer has always been for our children and grandchildren to have strong, healthy and Godly marriages.

Love, Mom

P.S. We are extremely grateful for Ed, Lisa and Ryan!