WARNING: Sappy Rant To Follow!

OK, do you see that face? Do you see the anticipation and fear mixed in that smile? I am the cause of those dueling emotions… I am the life bet she was just about to make… I still am. That is the face of the most wonderful, beautiful woman that 27 years ago today became my bride. She was and still is my very best friend, but time and the so many wonderful and frankly few not so wonderful experiences that have run through these many years together now have made that friendship so much more than it has ever been before. Like the fire that consumes the dross, she is the gold that remains. And still, as each day brings more choices, challenges, blessings, sorrows… each makes us so much more than we were the moment before. Susan Jacobs Griffin is my friend, my bride, my lover, my confident; the mother of my children, my anchor is rough water, my sail in open seas, the very heart of my humanity. She keeps a very vain man somewhat more humble… She is the smile that starts my every day and the last face I kiss at night… And for 27 years today, she is mine. Thank you Don and Rita Jacobs for the gift of your finest work… and thank you most of all Susan for putting up with me. All those years ago, I promised you only one thing beyond my love and fidelity — that it wouldn’t be boring. I only hope that I’ve kept my word. Happy Anniversary Sue. Here’s to another 27 and more!