In June, my parents celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary. Aren’t they a smart looking couple, my dad with his flat top and my mom with her heels together and her tiny waist. They were married in Longview Texas at the church and the reception was in her home. A small two bed room house built by her dad and his brothers just before the war.
All great love stories have a good beginning …. at the Malt Shop, on Thanksgiving, the girls were sitting on the cars talking. My mom was in the 10th grade. My dad was in the 12th grade. My dad was hanging out with his friend. His friend had a date that night but didn’t have a car so wanted my dad to get a date so he could drive. My dad said, “I will ask out the next girl I see.” He saw my mom and asked her out. My mom said yes. She had to get permission but she didn’t tell him that! The friend’s date backed out so my parents had their first date alone! Talking to my mom this morning, she said they knew of each other because their friends ran in the same circles going to parties together and the 12th graders were always asking out the 10th graders. Funny!!!
In celebration of their anniversary this past spring break we rented a house in Seagrove Beach, Florida and spent the week together. This is our first time in this area. We were really close to the famed Seaside. I really enjoyed seeing it and taking pictures.The whole area is really nice, in all directions. There are so many State Parks so lots of nature.
We had a wonderful week together, walking on the beach, cooking and eating our meals together, sitting by the pool and coffee on the porch and laughing. We laughed a lot. The highlight of the week was gathering around the pool and witnessing Kasey, my niece being baptized by my brother, Dan. It was truly a blessing. 
To also celebrate, we hired a professional photographer to take family pictures on the beach. We used the talented Kansas Pitts. She takes amazing pictures and is really fun! The pictures turned out awesome! (Maybe it was the threatening speech I gave Kevin, Drew and Chad before the pictures to behave).
The grandkids with Mom and Dad
To Mom and Deddy, thank you for your love and your kind spirit you have so freely given to me and so many over the years. You have blessed many and it goes beyond words.
I want to thank you for the home that I was raised in, the love that was given, the happiness that was always present, the fun that we always had… and still do. Thank you for loving each other. Thank you for choosing for better, for worse and sticking by those words. Your life and love have touched many people and I am witness to it. I am witness to it within my own household. You both are amazing people. You both are loving and are loved. Your home is warm and welcoming, your hearts are open and trusting. You give and give and still you give. You both are a beautiful Christian example to many. I love you.
Katey
