Thirty-three years ago today, I knelt across an altar in a room filled with family and friends. My view was to my soon-to-be bride, but the mirrors in back of each of us showed how our connection to each other and family was unending. We each made some simple promises to each other while we clasped hands across the altar. The setting reminded us that our promises were not just for this life, but eternal.

Now, thirty-three years later, we still keep those promises, and keep our eyes and hearts on the long-term promises we made. It hasn’t been all roses; there were a few thorns along the way. We’ve been through some good times and bad, and have grown from both of those types of experiences. We have children that give us joy, and children that are waiting to give us more joy. We have grandchildren to watch and enjoy (and spoil).

And we plan on continuing the same journey. Together. Husband and wife, as things should be.