Forty-six years ago on Valentine’s Day,
I gave you tiny diamond heart-shaped earrings,
And a promise of my love forever.
We didn’t really know what that meant,
As we began the journey together.
For we dreamed only of love and passion and children
And a sweet, sweet home life

Some fellow travelers joined us along the way,
Four boys that filled our quiver.
But now they’ve all gone their way,
As arrows from our bow,
To become the men God’s helped us form,
And help His Kingdom grow.

These four men gave us four new daughters, 
And so a second generation began.
First a little girl, then a boy,
Then another boy and another girl, 
and eight more after that,
The joys just kept on coming.

Yes, God did bring us our dreams,
And much, much more than that.
But He also brought some surprises:
Differences, disappointments, heartaches,
Tears, rejection and compromises.

Even so, 
Our journey has been sweet
And I’m sure will become even sweeter.
For, as with any valley, there comes the mountain,
As with any struggle, there comes the strength.
As with any storm, there comes the calm.

So, as we walk this new path,
Now that we’re back to two.
I still look forward with joy,
To finishing the journey with you.

My promise still stands,
I will love you forever.