...to my husband, John.
John and I have been married for 18 years. We met while students at Ouachita Baptist University back in 1988. I was a freshman, he was a senior. He saw me on campus one day shortly after the fall semester had begun and simply HAD to find out who the mystery girl was. He found my picture in the freshmen directory, called me, and asked me out. I had NO clue who this John guy was, so before I agreed to the date, we met for lunch at Walt's--the OBU cafeteria. He was very handsome, he met my dating criteria, and I liked him enough to want to get to know him better, so we headed to Fat Dave and Reba's, a hole-in-the-wall restaurant in Hot Springs, AR, and the rest is history. Seriously. He's the only guy I dated in college, and after my sophomore year we were married, and our life of adventure together began.
Eighteen years. Wow.
We've definitely had some adventure in our marriage. Lots of joy-filled memories, lots of FUN, lots of laughter and lots of happy, happy times. Like most of you, we've also experienced disappointment, heartbreak, and loss.
Last night at dinner, we were talking with the kids about the significance of 9/11. It is a day that I hope America will never forget. But it's hard for our family to think of that day and not be reminded of the personal loss that occurred on another 9/11.
And that's why I want to introduce you to John--the one who sees things more clearly and expresses things more poetically than I ever will.
Here is what he's written about our own personal 9/11. Want more? Then click here and here.
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11 comments:
I remember. I was at work. This year is different for me...a waking from my cocoon I suppose...the first 9/11 I've worked since 2001. I never have been able to bring myself to be at my desk and be reminded of how I felt. Today, I'm allowing the memories to come. Healing.
Thank you for sharing your husband with us. I enjoyed reading his perspective on your lives. You two are perfectly matched!
Well, since i'm already a huge fan of his, I was headed over to the Shame, but now I'll be even more prompt.
Blessings.
Those are beautiful, lyrical posts, Meredith. I relate on so many levels. My personal 9-11 was just five years ago. God has completely remade me in that time period.
It was so nice to read about your own 9/11! John is such a kind man, a gentle spirit, and a perfect match for YOU!
Sounds like love at first sight on his part! What a great story on how you met. Oh, Walt's! I'll never forget Walt dressing up like a Twinkie on Halloween or turkey cutlets! I don't think I could ever eat another turkey cutlet the rest of my life!
What a beautiful soul he has, Mer. Your family is such a wonderful, wonderful part of this community. I am better for you being near. I am thankful, too.
Love,
Holly
Wow! What great thoughts! I had my personal 911 3 years ago Labor Day weekend... so I could relate to a lot of what he said! Thanks for sharing!
Your hubby truly has a poetic soul. Thank you for pointing us to his words...so well said. I love the fact that you admit that you've had your share of ups and downs, but it just makes you that much more in love. I want to be able to say that when we've reached 18 years.
Isn't it strange how something devastating can result in beauty and fruit (speaking in terms of personal 9/11s).
My heart goes out to you regarding yours. As a PK I've been there and done that. As a deacon's wife I've also been there and done that. It's weird to have been on both "sides." My heart still breaks when I think about what happened and the people involved, but for very different reasons than 4 years ago.
I enjoyed reading John and your story. Sloan and I were talking about y'all when we were together over labor day. She always thought John was a great guy and that you were such a sweet girl. She also said to tell you hi.
After I catch here I will go read John's posts.
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