Delightful Decade

Ten years ago today was a balmy, Saturday afternoon in Lakeland, FL. It had rained a good bit of the morning, but it quickly dried up and the sun was again visible through the storm clouds. There was quite a lot of hustle and bustle going on at Maddox Ranch that day. The lawn was cut nice, the rose garden was weeded, and the animals were on their best behavior. I remember so vividly because it was our wedding day.

Ten years ago today Kristina Lorraine Counts became Kristina Lorraine Croft, and I became the luckiest man in the world. We had only dated the past two years, but we had known each other for seven years prior to our wedding. We were just kids. I was 19 and Kristina, the cradle-robber she is, was 20. We had been warned that we were too young, we still had time, and we needed to finish school before marriage. We scorned the advice and got engaged a few months before then, and now we were to be wed.

Kristina’s father performed the ceremony. My father was my best man. My mother looked more beautiful than I think I have ever seen her. But nothing was in comparison to my bride. As she walked down the aisle I was enamored and captivated by her beauty. As I held her hand and looked into her eyes I barely remember what her father was saying during his sermon. I’m sure it was a good and well thought out message, but my mind was elsewhere.

I was so nervous, not only because scores of people were staring at me, but also because I was now becoming a man. I had responsibility of another person placed upon me. I probably wasn’t ready – no, I know I wasn’t ready, but I was doing it anyway. Kristina has been more than gracious with me over these past 10 years. She has literally been a savior. I had no idea what it was like to be a husband, a lover, or a friend. She has taught me those things and many more over these past 10 years. God has granted us four children (in the past 5 years)!  She is my best friend, my confidante and my rock. I am so happy that 10 years ago today she said “I do” and meant it.

Happy Anniversary, my Beauty. Here’s to another 70 years with you or as long as God decides.