We've seen a couple of movies this week relating to the theme of marriage, both including great infidelity--- In one of the stories the marriage was redeemed by God's grace and in the other it was broken. As I look back over the years, I'm especially thankful for God's faithfulness and his goodness to us. While our blessings are countless, I've done some calculating of the details of God's provision for our family. It is only by his grace that we anticipate our 20th anniversary together-- on December 10th.
What goes into twenty years of marriage?
1 faithful Lord-- Christ Jesus
2 needy sinners- thankful for the mercy of God
3 beautiful daughters who are growing in grace
4 cities-- Jacksonville, suburban Philadelphia, Tampa, Ft. Worth
5 zipcodes (including apartment living)
6 churches-- under the shepherding care of loving elders
7 pets-- lots of dead fish
8 cars-- many car payments and repairs
9 countries visited-- expanding our vision of world and the kingdom of God
10 years in TEXAS-- ten more on the east coast
11 employers/job titles between the two of us (including security detail, UPS and Barnes and Noble)
12 years with Kelly-- blessed by her joyful and abiding presence
13 summers hiking in Crested Butte
14 years of pastoral ministry (many more including youth ministry and young life)
15 years with sweet Caroline-- blessed by her depth, thoughtfulness and passionate ways
16 years as homeowners (3 homes)-- mowing various lawns with the SAME lawnmower
17 years as parents (nearly)-- blessed by Katie Belle's strength, determination and grace
18 anniversaries celebrated at home (pizza, finals, packing to move, & Lonesome Dove Bistro)
19 family vacations to CB (including ski trips)
20 glorious years together
Kyle, it's been quite a journey. I'm crazy thankful for the blessing of doing life by your side.
I love you very much!
Your Bee
