At Venice Beach, Florida

On July 16, 1955 Mary and I were joined in Holy Wedlock at the East Petersburg Church of the Brethren in East Petersburg, Lancaster County, PA. We were married by the Rev. Richard Hackman who is no longer living. This was his first wedding and he was more nervous than was the groom. I can't speak for the bride, but I think she was too busy to get nervous.

This week, Mary and I observed our 49th Wedding Anniversary. Our celebration was small and intimate. We had dinner at the East of Eden Pub not far from our home. It was a beautiful evening. The restaurant was not crowded. We had our favorite German meal, consisting of Sauerbraten, Red Cabbage, Spaetzels, and German Potato Salad. For dessert Mary had a Russian Cheesecake and I had Black Forest Cake.

So, we have now entered our 50th year of wedded bliss. Although sometimes it is a little unblissful, most of our time together is pretty good. We do love and respect each other, and after you turn seventy, that's a major part of marriage. Comfort makes up for a lot of the loss of passion over the years.

If all goes well over the next 12 months, we can expect to celebrate our Golden Wedding Anniversary next year. Neither Mary's parents, not my parents made it that far. In both cases, one of the partners died before that milestone was reached.

And now, Mary, I raise my glass to you and salute you for putting up with an old reprobate like me for 49 years. You are to be commended for that. I'm sure it was not always easy. I hope we have a lot more years before it is time to go. I love you, Mary. What more can I say?