We met later in life.  Both of us were needing a fresh start.  Actually we had known each other for many years, through our jobs, but it was in the budding of Spring 1995 that Ben asked me to go to a "Non-Smoking Seminar".  That was our first personal acquaintance. 

The seminar worked, and we both quit smoking - at least for a few weeks.  We felt better, and had more energy, and began taking long walks together exploring the nearby parks.  Something special to share with someone special. 

Several weeks later we met for drinks after work. We were both pretty nervous, since "dating" was something long forgotten.  We talked and laughed for hours, and had that 'just one smoke' attack.  We are planning to quit again, real soon.
 

We really enjoyed  each others' company, so  Ben and I planned a real "date". 

There was a "COWBOY POETRY" event (John Lomax Family Gathering) happening at a tiny town in Texas that interested us.  So that was to be our first real date. 

It was a complete success.  The "poets" transported us into the colorful Wild West history, where we imagined life as it was in Texas. Everyone dressed in authentic 'Old West' costumes. Dinner was off the "Chuck wagon" and was especially delicious. 

GREAT COMPANY, GREAT FOOD, GREAT TIME.

The Joining -

Neither of us ever figured on ever being married again, you know, 'once burned twice shy'. 

You guessed it, our friendship, and kinship blossomed and we were married on St. Patrick's Day 1997. 

Seemed appropriate.  St. Paddy's Day was always a happy holiday for both of us.  Also, it is easy to remember the date! . . . things like that are important as you get older.

My Thoughts to Ben . . . 
 

'It seems to me that the coming of Love is like the coming of Spring,
The date is not to be reckoned by the calendar.

It may be slow and gradual; it may be quick and sudden.

Our kindred spirits joined in another time and place,
A wonderful day of cowboy legends with poetry and grace;

We shared the sunset with peace and calm,
A sudden kiss - how quickly we were drawn.

A soft I love you whispered in the night,
Echoed clearly through the morning light.

The love we have has blossomed and grown,
Something we can truly call our own.

The slow and gradual warmth and trust.

Our chance to learn together to love all over again.

You are truly the Springtime in my Life and
Together we are. . . 

Ben and I kept discovering how many of the same things we both enjoyed.  Funny how two people with diverse backgrounds can be so in tune with each other. 

We both love kids, the outdoors, traveling, music, fishing, gambling, and dogs.   Every day is comfortable to share with each other, no matter where it may take us.

• 6 Boys: Mike, Paul, Dustin, Brady, Nathan, Nial 
• 2 Girls:  Pam, and Julie 

• 5 Boys:  Michael, Heath, Robert, Travis, Tyler 
• 3 Girls: Jennifer, and Kayla and little Kaitlyn Ryanne 

• 1 Boy:  Elijah Jordan 

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Kayla and Travis

Kaitlyn Ryanne

Sharing the Experience

Getting together helped us both learn to appreciate our kids.  Even though our families have grown, and we each have gained a new family, we live pretty far away from them all. 

We have learned to treasure our moments with the kids. They live in: Arkansas, Florida, Texas and Ohio, and we miss them dearly.  Seems to help having someone to share those lonely moments with.