Thursday, December 28, 2006

December 28, 1956

Fifty years ago today, we were married. It all began with a date in high school. Can you imagine getting engaged at the senior prom. Yes, that is what happened. I think our generation must have been more mature than the kids are today.

We married a year and a half later and the rest as they say is history. But what a wonderful history. Ned was attending the University of Houston studying Chemical Engineering. After Mike was born a year and a half later, he worked full-time and still carried a full academic load. We bought a little house, had another son, Gary. Then 16 months later, Doug joined the family. We bought a larger house. Church, family, work, children, friends, golf, cutting grass, buying groceries......the time passes with all the little pieces of life.

Here we are leaving the church after the wedding reception that was also at the church. As I've looked at the wedding pictures I'm struck by the differences that have occurred over 50 years. Yes, we have changed.....a lot. But I'm struck with the differences in our culture and customs. The wedding and reception was in the church we attended. It was lovely but it wasn't a break-the-bank wedding with designer dresses, seated dinner and dancing. A friend loaned me her wedding dress. My mother made my veil. My bridesmaids dresses were made by a seamstress or by their mothers. The reception was in the Fellowship Hall of the church. We had a receiving line....don't see that much anymore. Punch, coffee and cake were served. No alcohol, no dinner, no band, no dancing. That is the way weddings were done in our neighborhood 50 years ago.

This was my going away outfit. Every bride had to have a special going-away outfit. Mine was a charcoal gray wool suit, with black suede shoes and bag, a dusty pink velvet hat.....a well dressed lady always wore a hat to church and for special occasions. But the best thing I had was the gray mouton coat over my shoulder....a Christmas present from Ned just a few days earlier. And of course the corsage of sweetheart roses. Ned had a good looking sport jacket, white shirt and tie. Notice the handkerchief in his breast pocket.

It was an event that marked our commitment and love for each other.....before God, family, and friends. That was 50 years ago. Sometimes it seems like yesterday and other times it seems like 50 years ago......but the commitment and love for each other is still in the moment.

10 comments:

Paul said...

Congratulations, both of you.

-Nancy

pitchertaker said...

I feel of great deal of respect for you and Ned, and it is one of my most treasured honors to know you both. Congrats! Like I've said before, how could we have possibly known we would go so far 50-years ago. One hell-of-a- journey, ya' know?

Pitchertaker

Just Me said...

Thank you for sharing your story, Billie! How wonderful. My husband and I have only been married for 7 1/2. We are still madly in love and each other's best friends. I can easily see being with him 43 years from now. I long for the times you describe. People don't stop to enjoy simple things anymore. Everyone seems to be trying out do each other. I hope you and your Ned have another 50 years together! God Bless!!

Anonymous said...

Dear Billie and Ned,

We send our heartfelt congratulations to you! Love the photos. Thanks for sharing.

Gloria and Eddie

anonymous female said...

Such neat pics and story. THis allows me to see another side of you guys.

Claudine

1st Mate said...

Your Golden Anniversary! Congratulations! What a guapo couple you were! Hope you had a lovely anniversary day.

Anonymous said...

What wonderful pictures. Such a dashing couple. And I figured Vicki and I were doing great at 30+.
Congratulations and may the next 50 flow even smoother.
Bill

Brenda Maas said...

Congratulations and many more happy years to come.

Anonymous said...

Hola Billie & Ned,

Tomorrow (30th) for Anita and I will be not quite half of your amazing 50 years. We too are better friends and lovers than in the beginning - life is good that way.

Congratulations!

Juan & Anita

La Gringa said...

How fabulous! And what a wonderful way you have told the story.

Congrats!