My gpa was behind the wheel, Curt’s gpa rode shotgun
One of my favorite memories from our wedding day was the ride to the reception. It was a beautiful day. A little breezy. Especially in the back of a 1909 Model T Ford. Curt and I laughed as I grabbed my veil, trying my best to keep it from flying off in a sudden gust of wind.
I can hardly believe that was nineteen years ago. Nineteen years seems like a long time – until I think about the owners of that Model T. My grandparents. Compared to them, Curt and I are newlyweds. |
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They married in 1940. Gladys was twenty. Art was nineteen. He called her “Gladdy.” Together, they’ve persevered through 72 years of marriage.
My grandparents never sat me down and explained how to stay married for seven decades. They just lived it. Day after day, year after year, they modeled a lifetime of self-sacrifice and determination. But I’d never seen a clearer picture of their promise than I did a couple years ago. It was the day they went into the nursing home. Understandably, neither of them wanted to go. None of us blamed them for wanting to spend their final days in the comfort of their own home. For a few years, outside help allowed them to do that. But when Grandma’s dementia progressed, we knew staying home was no longer an option. |
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Their three grown children came together and talked with them about the situation. Grandpa wasn’t pleased, but he understood what must be done. Grandma wanted no part of it.
Eventually the day came when they had no choice. It was a difficult day for everyone. Taking grandma out of her home would be no small task. Grandma was stubborn, and they all knew they’d have a fight on their hands.
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Today they are still modeling their life-long commitment. Grandma fusses over Grandpa – and doesn’t much care for it when one of the aides takes care of him. That’s her job. He’s her husband.
On my wedding day nineteen years ago, Curt and I had a long road ahead of us. But my grandparents have inspired me to go the distance. I am proud to be part of their legacy of love. They are a special couple who took very seriously the promise, “’til death do us part.” |
 And away we go! Hang on to that veil!
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I absolutely love this story of your wedding memories. What a great tribute to your grandparents.
Glad you enjoyed it. I can’t imagine 72 years of marriage! They’re a special couple.
Beautiful. What a precious thing – to have such an example, a heritage of love. My grandparents modeled this for me, too., They’re in heaven now, but what they shared, taught, lived ~ it still stretches deep. Thx for sharing.
This is a beautiful tribute to two beautiful couples. This story brought tears to my eyes thinking of my own grandparents’ 62 year marriage. Thanks for sharing…
Nice. You know I am a huge fan.
How awesome to have grand parents live long and what great memories. I never knew my grandparents as my mother’s mother died when she was 14 years old and her father died when I was 6 months old. My father came from Sweden at 19 years old. My mother was older at 39 when she gave birth to me, so I was around older people all my life, which I was grateful that God gave me many grand parents to look up too. Thanks for sharing your memories Sheri.
Sheri
I read this to my mom today (Ethel Martin-aunt Gladys sister)
Thank you! She really enjoyed the memories.