It’s hard for me to believe but it’s true, my wife Stacey and I have been dating for 10 years. Yep, today marks 10 years of hanging together and being best friends. Looking back there have been a lot of great times, some funny moments, and even a few sad ones.
Thursday April 22, 1999:
It was a sunny Spring day. Stacey and I were hanging out at her house. We had just finished watching an all-time classic American film, Tommy Boy. Much to our delight, Chris Farley had successfully duped Dan Aykroyd and somehow managed to save Callahan Auto Parts! As the tape (yes the VHS tape) rewound itself I realized this was my chance. I was about to do something that I had never done.
I leaned over and gently kissed Stacey Marie Nix on the lips. This was my first kiss. My mom and sister had been the only women to receive such a gift from me until that moment. The best part was… I missed. It’s true, I kissed her top lip and the space between her nose and mouth, how embarrassing. So naturally, I thought quickly and said, “I missed, let me try that again.”
This time, bulls eye. A perfect peck on the lips! I was surprised when she smiled, I’m not sure what reaction I was hoping for but the smile made me feel at ease.
We took a walk to her neighborhood park to discuss our future as a couple. Our future plans at that point included walking together at our upcoming graduation in June. Other than that I don’t remember much about what we said to one another. I was still walking on clouds knowing I had just kissed the girl of my dreams.
To be honest, 10 years later I still smile when I think of that day. I’ve since married the only girl I’ve ever kissed and some days, I still feel like I’m walking on clouds. We have two beautiful daughters, Andrea and Hailey. We have a great place to call home. We are both ministering and doing what God has gifted us to do. We are close to both sides of the family. We are part of a great church family.
When I really sit and think about it, I am completely humbled by God’s blessing in my life. Especially the blessing of a wonderful woman with whom I get to share it.
