I have been given a remarkable gift. A man who has adored me from the time we were in science lab together at Carson-Newman College. Anyone who has known us throughout any period of our lives, whether during college, in Atlanta as newlyweds, at seminary in Texas, or the last fourteen years back in East Tennessee, can attest to the fact that the man loves his wife. Twenty years and five kids later, he still adores me. And I, him. And we will always always always love each other. I am his and he is mine, til death do us part.
I knew I wanted to present him with something momentous, something extraordinary that would be representative of our years together and God’s faithfulness to us. I wanted him to be blown away. And he was. It was a dream come true for me to give him this treasure box, containing mementos I’ve been gathering now for months…..
our wedding pictures, wrapped in the lace handkerchief I carried that day
in the vials, beads from my veil and a dried rose petal from our 16th anniversary vow renewal ceremony
our wedding invitation and program, newspaper announcement, and words written out of the hymn sung at our ceremony, Great is Thy Faithfulness…….yes, it is
pictures upon pictures of babies and more babies…..and a fifteen year old daughter and a pack of not-so-little-anymore boys
and love notes and newborn footprints
and many other reminders that we have been richly blessed and God is good
Yes…..in the midst of joy and heartache, ease and stress, the rewards and challenges of parenting and the dailyness of life…..we can hold in our hands tangible reminders of grace and relive the moments that have defined us.
And there are vials that stand empty, waiting to be filled with reminders of sweet occasions we’ve yet to experience. And ample space to add cherished pieces of our days, our legacy to our children and grandchildren. Here’s to the NEXT TWENTY years! Brian Smith, what’s the next treasure to be added to our box?
“He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together.” Colossians 1:17
Special anniversary portrait sessions, and this exquisite Heirloom Keepsake Box, are available upon request.
Contact Amy for details.
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What a sweet, sweet present! Not only to your husband, but also to your kids and future generations! A tangible representation of God’s faithfulness! Your family’s Ebenezer. 🙂
Amy, this is a timeless treasure. You’ve done a beautiful job on this heirloom. Congratulations to you both and may God continue to bless your marriage beyond measure.
Oh, this is such a beautiful story! These images are absolutely gorgeous! You are a very lucky family!
OMG, what a wonderful story you guys have. I made me teary eyes. To the next 20!!
This is an absolutely beautiful testimony of a beautiful God-centered marriage. Thank you for sharing this with the rest of us…just beautiful. xoxo
This brought tears to my eyes. So special and so beautiful.
Oh, Amy – this is beyond words! How beautiful and sweet and …. just awesome! I bet he cried! Have enjoyed watching yall since before kids – thanks for loving each other well and teaching your kids how to do it! May God grant you many, many, many more years together to serve Him!
That is truly a priceless treasure representing the treasure of past, present and future years. May God continue to bless the love you share.
Thank you all for the kindnesses shown in your encouraging words!
Just love this! What an awesome gift (the box and your marriage!).