Love Thursday: Let the GOLD Times Roll

Last Thursday we discussed new marriages and fairytale weddings, and, I don't know about you, but I felt a twinkle in my toes all week. (Of course, it could be the drinks I've been downing at this year's UBP, but I'm not admitting to anything!)

But, this week, I have the Ultimate Love Thursday post. Ladies and gentlemen of the blogosphere, it is my great honour (see, saying it in British makes it that much more regal) to present to you, on the weekend of the anniversary of 50 blissfully married years...Maw Maw and Papa.

Oh, what I wouldn't give to have an electronic version of their wedding picture - taken 50 years ago this Sunday - to show you here. Close your eyes and imagine it. (Well, open your eyes, read this, then close your eyes and imagine it.)

The fresh faces of two young lovers...her with her thick black hair classically tied up, him with the same shy smile and fresh-out-of-the-military crew cut, standing behind a small three-tiered, blue-flowered wedding cake, slicing the first bite.

To hear them tell the love story is enchanting. Her sister was already married to his brother, and they knew these two would be perfect together. So, they set it up.

"We're going out to see a movie tonight," her sister told her. "Ernest wants you to come."

"There's a new movie we want to see," his brother said. "Shirley asked if you were coming."

It worked.

Now 6 children, 24 grandchildren, and 27 great-grandchildren later...more in love than ever.

They are celebrating this weekend, with family and friends at the same hometown mansion where my own friends hosted a bridal shower only five months ago.

My grandfather prepared a hand-written list for the DJ. Number one on the list? "When a Man Loves a Woman."

He once told us he prays he lives longer than my grandmother.

"It can only be one day longer," he added. "But, I want to always be here to take care of her."

My mother, in all of her comback glory, was quick to reply with, "We hope you're always here, too. She's too spoiled now for the rest of us!"

Ah yes. Everyone will be there to celebrate this weekend. Well, almost everyone.

Everyone but us.

But, in my absence I'm sending positive thoughts and prayers for many more years.

Many more happy years.

Many more healthy years.

Auguri Maw Maw and Papa and Happy LT!