8.8.08
For many...that date reminds them of the 2008 Olympics. But, for me and Jason, it marks 10 years of being married. I cannot believe it's already been 10 years. How is it even possible?
For those of you who don't know...this is our story.
Fall 1995...God has led me away from missions and returned me back to finish college to the first school of my choice, Simpson College (now known as Simpson University), in Redding, California. I was very excited to return back to school. I loved that it was smaller than my first college at Western Oregon, and primarily that it focused on God and biblical teachings. I quickly learned that God placed me with a quirky, but great roommie, and wonderful suitemates to boot. Anyways...many fun times were had in the first few weeks at school. Meeting new friends, going to events, attending classes, and an alumni volleyball game that would change my world forever.
My suitemate, Rebecca and I went to the Alumni volleyball game. As we were sitting there, watching it...she, out of the blue asked me..."what kind of guy do you like?" I know...very mature, we were. I glanced around and a few rows up saw a group of guys. In that group was one that really got my attention. I told her "that guy...right up there..". And there, was Jason. What drew me to him? I seriously think the Lord had a hand in it, but to be honest, it was the joy he showed through his laughter and his eyes. He seemed to have a sense of kindness, fun, enjoyment and, oh yes...he was terribly good looking. Seriously.
So..that was the first time I'd spotted Jason. Then, come to find out, I had three classes with his brother, Jed, who was a freshman that year. My keen observation also realized that Jed and Jason were roommates, right around the corner from our dorm room and I saw them walking above on the outdoor walkway above my room very frequently. I don't remember exact events, but since Jed and I did have so many classes together, along with many of my new friends, we studied in groups a lot. After a couple times, I told Jed he could invite his brother along if he wanted to. Tricky, I know. But, soon, Jason was joining us in studying. Well..,most of us studied...Jason just went to hang out since he had already taken the classes. I remember praying a lot during this time, asking God to lead the way. I believe without a doubt, that the Lord lead us then, and leads us know.
That's how our story started. We enjoyed many nights of talking and getting to know one another. Many fun times, studying together, doing Bible studies just the two of us, trips to his family, trips to my family. That was in 1995. Married for 10 years, together for13. No..it has not always been easy..but, I don't think it's supposed to be a piece of cake. Marriage without the Lord seems impossible. But with the Lord, marriage is truly a wonderful gift. The fun and joys outweigh the difficulties.
I love Jason, more so even than in the beginning. He is an amazing husband and I am truly blessed. I'm often amazed that God has blessed me with such a wonderful man. He loves the Lord, desires to know more about God, loves me and cherishes me, adores our daughter, enjoys spending his time with his family, laughs, lives, and loves.
I thank God for Jason and the ten years he has blessed us with, our daughter Saiah, and our new one to come. I look forward to the years to come that the Lord blesses us with.
Jason and I during our college years
