62 years ago today, my parents were married.
Once high school sweethearts - now married forever!
Mom was a junior at Longwood College in Farmville, Virginia and had planned a Christmas wedding during her school break. Daddy was in the Army and stationed in Albuquerque, New Mexico. He made it home just in the nick of time for the wedding. I think there was a story about a hard-nosed officer who didn't want to grant him leave or something. I'm sure Mom was fit to be tied!
The grand event took place on December 21, 1950 at 4:00 PM in Danville, VA at the Methodist Church where they still attend.
The newlyweds honeymooned at the Hotel Roanoke in Roanoke, Virginia and then Daddy went back to New Mexico and Momma went back to school.
That summer, she attended summer school at the University of New Mexico and waited for Daddy to complete his Army commitment. In September, they both moved back to Farmville where Mom finished her senior year.
They then settled in Danville, Virginia and the rest as they say is history.
Me - I came along seven years later. Worth the wait, I tell them!
We celebrated their anniversary tonight with dinner at The Golden Lamb in Lebanon - a historic inn that's been in operation since 1803. Lebanon is so pretty this time of year with tons of white lights in the storefronts and on the streetlamps. The Golden Lamb was very festive looking with wreaths, trees, and other decorations everywhere.
I think this time of year is extra special for any celebration. All the glittery lights and the festive atmosphere --- whatever your occasion - it's like the world is celebrating with you.
I wish everyone could have parents like mine. The love they have for each other is so evident. They still kiss. They still hold hands. They laugh together. They obviously care enormously about each other. When I say they care about each other, I mean care as in concern and worry and the selfless "dive in front of the bullet for the other" kind of caring. That's a rare and wonderful gift. It's a gift not only for each other but a gift for me as their daughter.
My mother once told my sons that the best thing a father can do for his children is to love their mother. I would change this just a tad to say that the best thing that parents can do for their children is to love each other.
Happy 62nd Anniversary, Mom and Daddy!
And, thank you for being my parents!
Wow 62 years, that is a long long time. Tell them Congratulations and I love the advice your Mom gave the boys. Parents loving each other shows children a lot. Very good advice. Oh and yes you were worth the wait.
Posted by: Kathy | December 26, 2012 at 08:34 AM
Congratulations to your parents, Robin! I have to confess that I cried when I read this post. How wonderful to have so many years together ...and that you were able to celebrate with them this year at your home! ~Suzy
Posted by: Suzy Whitten | December 24, 2012 at 07:03 PM
What an amazing feat! Happy belated anniversary to them.
Posted by: Kristyn | December 23, 2012 at 02:05 PM
"...the best thing that parents can do for their children is to love each other." Amen!
What a great tribute to your parents. Happy Anniversary to them!
Posted by: Christie | December 23, 2012 at 05:22 AM
Pass the tissues and convey my good wishes for many more! What a beautiful, special couple.
Merry Christmas to you and yours too!!
Posted by: Channon | December 22, 2012 at 09:17 AM
Please tell them I said hello and congratulations on 62 wonderful years.
Posted by: Robin Crittenden | December 22, 2012 at 08:23 AM
Beautiful Robin...you are so very BLESSED to have both your parents....what a legacy they give to you! Memories are so precious!
Merry Christmas!
Merry ♥
Posted by: Merry Thornsburg | December 21, 2012 at 09:46 PM
How sweet..had a good cry!
Posted by: Jan | December 21, 2012 at 09:35 PM