1966:
I stood on stage waiting for the soloist to arrive. My college choir was at the beautiful Lake Junaluska assembly grounds in Western North Carolina for a retreat and to sing for a conference. The building in which we were performing was cavernous, round and ringed with ceiling-to-floor windows; it looked out upon the peaceful lake and stone chapel.
The soloist arrived, took his place at the podium and our choir director raised her baton. The beautiful voice of the young man filled every nook of the building. His talent and his testimony blessed me. Truth be told, I lost my place in my music in awe of such beauty.
1967:
A year later I received my engagement ring under the cross that overlooks Lake Junaluska. The large cross, sitting on a native stone base, is outlined in light bulbs and can be seen from any spot on the grounds. I said yes to my future husband and to a life of Christian ministry under the light of that holy symbol.
1968:
I walked down the aisle of the Memorial Chapel at Lake Junaluska on my wedding day. My waiting groom was the young man that had sung the solo and captured my heart.
2013:
This week marks our 45th wedding anniversary. We will walk the assembly grounds and again bow at the altar in renewal of our vows. We will stand underneath the light of the cross and will thank our Lord for a beautiful and blessed marriage. We will celebrate the gift of two wonderful children, one that now resides in heaven (she also married in the same chapel.)
I am indeed blessed to have been married for all these years to the love of my life. I pray for you young couples as you stand at the threshold of your married life. I rejoice with you older couples who have weathered storms and who stand firm within your bonds of marriage.
That wonderful husband of mine gave me the most precious anniversary gift…a light bulb that lit the cross at Lake Junaluska encased within a handmade wooden case.
God, give us more years to share our love with each other and to proclaim our love for You.
Yes, I am a blessed woman.
Happy 45th, my love.
Happy anniversary, Dee Dee! I hope you've had a great time with Brad & Morgan, and I hope you're feeling better and all healed up. Looking forward to chatting with you Monday! Hugs down from VA :)
ReplyDeleteSusan, thank you. Had a wonderful time with the kids. Can't wait t for our talk. Love You.
DeleteDee Dee, this is precious. Happy Anniversary! You're a precious daughter of the King. {{{hugs}}}
ReplyDeleteThank you, Nan. So good to hear from you. Hugs back at ya!
DeleteBlessed indeed but so is he. :-)
ReplyDeleteDiana, you are so precious. We need to get together for lunch very soon. Love you.
DeleteMy heart is big! Thanks for such a beautiful, "swell" post! May you celebrate many more anniversaries, Dee Dee!
ReplyDeleteAlycia, thank you so much. I am enjoying your blog. I am so proud of you!!! Love You.
DeleteDee Dee - you have been and are such a great example for me. Such a well written story! Happy Anniversary to two blessed people, yet one beautiful couple! Hugs :)
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for your sweet words. See you soon! Love you.
DeleteMy two favorite people. Happy anniversary and thank you. You know why!
ReplyDeleteMuch love
Cindy Peach
Cindy Peach, we love you bunches! You know what I am doing and where I am spending time. Love You.
DeleteHappy Anniversary, sweet Dee and Jim! Your love story is inspiring to us all. :) Lake Junaluska, the perfect setting.
ReplyDeleteI especially like your flip-up, Dee Dee. :) Beautiful!
Cathy, thank you. Living with Jim IS a love story!!! Yep, that hair style was all the rage. The Lake is such a special spot to our family. Love you!
DeleteWhat a beautiful story!!!! And what a sweet gift for your 45 anniversary. Congratulations to you both. You are such an inspiration to me and I want my marriage to be as loving and strong as yours!!! You two are so special to me. Now, on to the next 45 years!!!!
ReplyDeleteGod bless you both my mountain friends :)
Beth
Thank you, Beth. I pray that our marriage will stand as a testimony to many. Miss you. Love you.(You are so special to me)
DeleteHappy Anniversary, Dee Dee and Jim!!! You are both so precious!!! I'm praying for healthy, happy years ahead! Love you!
ReplyDeleteThank you Kristi, So appreciate our friendship. Love the pictures of that sweet baby. Love you.
ReplyDelete