After 25 Years . . .

Last Sunday, our little church family threw a “surprise” anniversary party for us after the service. It was actually a potluck and the cat was out of the bag the Sunday before, so it was not a complete surprise–except that it was. Beth and Tony decorated the fellowship hall with balloons and hearts and Mari Lynn made a candle arrangement for the head table–where we were to sit. There were about 20 people, a whole lot of yummy food, and a gorgeous silvery cake for our “Silver Anniversary.” What a fun way to celebrate our quarter century of marriage! What a kindness from our church family! This is what we looked like way back in 1996.

Memories of that cold February day come flooding back. Everything from the greasy hair I had because the beautician refused to wash it–said that dirty hair is the best to work with for special hairdos. Hmmm. To the phone call I got from Uncle Dick who said he wouldn’t be able to play the piano that day because he hurt his back. My step-sister (a piano teacher) stepped in at the last minute and even played “The Hallelujah Chorus” as our recessional. A few missed notes, but are you kidding? That was a true gift to us to step up in such a pinch! The rest of the music, a duet from Pete and Crystal and prelude and postlude music by Windsong (the “girl band” I was a part of back then) made the ceremony so special. But the best part was repeating our vows. Even though I became very emotional when it was my turn, just having Scott’s strong hands holding mine and his dreamy blue eyes and gentle smile encouraging me, I made it through and we sealed the deal. He hadn’t slept the night before (no doubt from nerves) and I knew that if I lost it, we would both be blubbering up on the platform. We chuckle now, but it was the covenant of marriage we were entering into and pretty serious business before God and our witnesses. So at 34 and 42, we became Mr. & Mrs. Trask. And the angels sang–Hallelujah!

It’s really amazing how fast time has gone by. We remember sitting in our house just three months into our marriage and saying how comfortable and right it felt. Little did we know what was ahead, the countless blessings, the joys, as well as the loss, the hard work, and the struggles of life. But we know it’s all been for our good and God’s glory. We came into the marriage being content singles and best friends. That’s been our secret, I think–contentment, friendship and love. Our love has grown deep and secure. Our friendship has never been stronger. Thanks be to God! We are not sure we will make it to our 50th, since we started this adventure together a little later than most. That’s why celebrating our Silver Anniversary is mighty special. And that’s why we are so thankful for the hoopla that happened last Sunday in our honor. Besides, it was a great excuse for some good fellowship (and to eat some delicious cake!) with our little church family.