Up The Creek Without A Paddle
It's been a good life together
by Terry Toole

By the time you read this, even the webpage readers, my first wife, and "ye scribe," will have spent over 51 years of married bliss together.

I know that I should have written about our wonderful marriage last week instead of telling you about all the emails I get each week trying to sell me things that will make my body better and younger and do what it has already quit doing.

When you have been married for 51 years and married when you were 20, you might forget what you should do at a certain time.

I can still remember that on a Sunday morning, on January 8, 1956, at high noon, the preacher finished his sermon, said the prayer, and asked the congregation to stay seated if they wanted to attend a wedding. He dismissed everyone else. Best I remember, we had a full house. Even the Baptist came over to Colquitt Methodist to see this happening.

The Rev. Carlton Anderson opened the side room door, where I was and asked, "Boy are you ready?"

I was wearing a brand new double-breasted suit and thought I looked fair for a new bridegroom. I answered, "Yes, sir!"

Just before we walked out to perform the ceremony, the preacher said, "Well, zip up your britches."

I zipped up, and we walked out to start the ceremony. I looked in the back, and there stood the most beautiful bride a young, red-headed Irishman could wish for. She came down the aisle, and we were married in a matter of minutes.

The preacher said, "You may kiss the bride."

He didn't have to tell me twice. That kiss is still legendary.

All of our family and friends went around to Ma's house to eat lunch. My new bride and I left shortly for our new home in Atlanta on a borrowed car, $100.00 to our name and me without a job. Talking about living on love and faith, we both did.

To make a long, long story short, we have lived together for the past 51 years, as I said, in married bliss. The only fusses we ever had were when my first wife decided that she didn't like the way I did something and attempted to make me change.

We had some "spirited" discussions that could be heard for blocks, but it was worth it all for all those make-ups.

From this one-of-a-kind beginning came two fine daughters and three wonderful grandchildren.

I started thinking what I would change if I could, and the fusses we had when we were young would be at the top of the list. If I could do it again, there would be more. Those make-up sessions were great. The rest, I don't know if I would change a thing.

Over the years, our love has grown deeper and more meaningful. We truly have become one.

Occasionally my first wife has a relapse and forgets that changing me is something she should leave up to our Lord. Other than that, we have enjoyed each other for every one of those 51 years.

I intend to keep her for at least 50 or more years, or until death do us part.

Lord, I hope you are merciful and take me first. I'm not too sure how I would do without the mate that you provided.

She really is doing well and looks as good, or better, than when we married. Others must feel the same. When we were at Wattie Hays' 90th birthday party last week, her brother, Dr. Billy Grimes had my daughter, Tammy, hugging her when I walked up.

Doc said, "Betty Jo, you look better than ever."

Tammy was quick to say, "No, I'm Tammy, Betty Jo's daughter."

I reminded him that he was Betty Jo's doctor when Tammy was born in Atlanta, 49 years ago. When I get to be 94, I might make the same mistake. I agree with the good doctor, though, Betty Jo just keeps looking better.

Even with this romantic writing, I'll still probably have to get her something for our 51st anniversary.

It has been a wonderful life together so far. I have changed some, hopefully for the better, but don't expect too much better than you've got. Happy Anniversary, First Wife.