1986

Chernobyl, The Challenger, Iran-Contra, Mad Cow Disease, Rutan Voyager, The First Laptop, The Mir Space Station, Nintendo, Chuck Norris Action Figures, Thundercats, Top Gun, Crocodile Dundee, Platoon, Magnum PI, Dynasty, Hill Street Blues, The Bears crush the Patriots in the Super Bowl, Celtics win the NBA Championship, Bill Buckner boots the ball.

All those things made the headlines in 1986.

What didn’t make any headlines is that two 19 year olds got married on February 8, 1986.

30 years later I am still madly in love with my best friend.

The stories she could tell you about me strikes fear in my heart, and yet here we are.

The ups and downs, the joy and sorrow, the laughter and tears. I am sure any couple who is married 30 years has those.

But I am the luckiest man alive, because I got to experience all those with the woman who loves me unconditionally, who puts up with me no matter what, who not only tolerates all my flaws but covers over them with grace and dignity. What man could ask for more?

Who knows what the future holds? God has graced me with a wonderful marriage for 30 years. Statistics say there won’t be 30 more, because one or both of us won’t be here anymore. That is a sobering thought. How many days have I wasted by letting pride get in the way? How many times have I said or done hurtful things? More than I can bear to recall. I think anytime you have a chance to reflect it’s a good idea to do so. I can truly say that she is the glue that has held this thing together, who has reflected God’s love and grace, and without whom I would not be the man I am. I want to be better because she deserves it, I can’t imagine living without her. Married above my station? Biggest understatement ever.

Happy Anniversary Nancy Carlson

I love you, now and always.

Dean