Monday, May 18, 2009

Silver Linings.....

     I was eighteen years old when my father died suddenly.  I had never known such sorrow and a very dark cloud seemed to envelop me.  I didn't know if I would ever feel a sense of comfort and hope again.  
     A year later I met a very sweet boy.  He was older, wiser and he understood my broken heart....he too had just lost his father. 
      On May 17th, 1975 we celebrated that our hearts were hopeful and we pledged our lives to one another.
This year we celebrated our 34th Wedding Anniversary.  We chose to go to a place we visit often....the Apple Farm in San Luis Obispo.  But this visit was not like any of the others.

We had booked our regular visit...a discounted "Frequent Visitor" rate.  But when Stephanie heard that it was our Anniversary, she asked if she could change our room to the Mill House as their gift to us.  YES!!!!!  Our room was a private suite away from the rest of the Inn.  It was very chic and we were surrounded by trees which gave our stay a very "tree house" sort of feel.  We were lulled to sleep by the sound of the water wheel and the song of frogs in the creek.
We spent our evenings soaking in this hot tub, surrounded by trees, looking at the stars and feeling a total sense of contentment and relaxation.
Our days were filled with scenic drives along abandoned back roads.  This day we ended up on Big Sur....one of the most lovely places in California.
My husband,  the avid photographer,  found much beauty to capture on the many back roads we visited.
The wildflowers were in abundance....
Visiting a few wineries was on the agenda.....
As were gardens and sweet houses....
We completed our anniversary vacation by visiting our dear niece and her very adorable family....

...and completed our special day with a surprise dinner that Jonathan and Jill provided for us.  Our anniversary was special in ALL ways.  A celebration of years spent together, growing in love and knowing that even the darkest clouds provide a silver lining.

 

7 comments:

Meghan said...

So beautifully written. I love you so much Mama. I'm glad you and Daddy shared that amazing trip together. I can't think of a more deserving couple.

Jacqueline Korteland Boller said...

That trip looks wonderful! As does your private cottage at the Apple Farm!! Congrats and many more happy years!

Kate said...

I love your wedding picture! It captures the love you share with your husband, the adornment.

Kate

Sandy said...

Congratulations on 34 years. What a wonderful, restful vacation...so glad you had a fun time!

Karen, aka Yaya said...

I agree with Meghan-"so beautifully written!" I so want to go back to Apple Farm-we've only stayed there once but loved it and San Luis Obispo has always held a special place in our hearts too!! Thanks for sharing!

Cheryl said...

What a wonderful celebration of your 34 years. Love your wedding photo and written with such love.

jessica said...

Happy 34th Anniversary!..such a beautiful bride & dashing groom!! Your love story inspires me. And your get.a.way sounds absolutely dreamy..thank you for sharing! Love you Mom Dease!