It was a snow day today so I figured I’d take advantage of this time to de-clutter my chest of papers and trash what needs to be.  As I emptied the chest, I came across a bag I had buried underneath the stack.  As I grabbed the envelopes and pulled out the letters all tucked inside, realizing what they were and my thoughts reflected back…  Oh how the years go by…. They were love letters my boyfriend/1st love – now husband wrote me while he was away in college and the military.  We wrote each other faithfully – back then long distance phone calls were expensive so we had to write.  I realize I’m the sentimental nut in the relationship because I know he can’t remember where the letters I wrote him are..  but that’s ok..

I guess you can tell he missed me..  Oh.. the wonderful days of Puppy Love..

Yes, the world says February 14th is Valentines Day- a day where many bouquets of roses will be bought, boxes of chocolate given and plenty of jewelry & cards exchanged – all to express how much you love your significant other- which are all wonderful expressions.  But after spending over 30 years with the same person, I realize the best gift is the gift of love.  Come July 11th we’ll be celebrating our 27th wedding anniversary but making 33 years total being together.

Our matrimony union was blessed with two wonderful sons that was the glue to bind us together.   (Sometimes children don’t realize the secret power they possess over their parents)

There were many a times I didn’t think we’d make it, but because of love we managed to pull through the storms to make it this long.

Vacations were considered a luxury, but contrary, they are a necessity for a family and a couple – to vacate from the norm, to let go of stress, to re-group your emotions and re-kindle the flame.

One year my sons gave me rings for Valentine’s Day.  They were little at the time – I thought it was just the cutest thing they ever did – them coming to me with their little boxes and smiles on their face anticipating my excitement of seeing their gift to me.  🙂 .   I still have the little plastic jewel tone rings tucked away in my vanity.  They probably don’t remember giving them to me, but I do and I’ll never throw them away.  They’re part of my cherished memories.

This Valentine year, who needs a Valentine card??? Not me –  I don’t need a card, flowers, chocolates or jewelry to know I’m loved… My husband and sons already have that covered.. because I know they love me just as much as I love them.

Oh how the years go by. All through the changes so many times we loved, we laughed, we cried.. As the years go by

The Wallace Family

May God bless you with more love – because the greatest gift is from the heart.