Anniversaries

I have to admit I am so proud of my parents. They just celebrated 37 years of marriage a couple of days ago. They have 11 children, 7 children in-law and (almost) 25 grandchildren to show for it. Though Dad has always had a good job, they have never been "wealthy", mostly due to the number of children they chose to bring into the world. My adoring Mom stayed home with all 11 of us--no small feat I'm finding with my own 3. Daily I wonder "how did she do this X 3 1/2?" I know that alot of love and effort went into their parenting, but I'm also realizing as the years go by in my own marriage (I can't believe it will be 10 years in a couple of months since we got married!) that putting all that effort into your children is not enough. To truly have a successful family, you have to put just that much effort or more into your spouse, DAILY! This is so difficult, especially in today's world. Even when you can keep yourself from buying into the worldly ideas of success, it's so difficult to put as much blood, sweat and tears into family as my parents have and always will put into ours. What a tremendous blessing to have such parents. So to Mom and Dad (if you even read this blog) here's my anniversary wish for you: may each year you continue to nurture our family and each other bring as much happiness into each of your lives as you have brought into mine. I love you both so much!