28 years.. and LIttle Brothers

 Daily Gratitude Year 9-Day 149: Today, I am grateful for 28 Years... and little brothers.

Yesterday we celebrated big brothers... today we treasure the little brothers. 

The month of May continues to be a mix of the joys and the sorrows. My little brother and his beautiful bride, Jennifer, marked 28 years today. How can time fly so quickly? I don't feel that much older. Happy Anniversary to two of our favorites. 

Aunt Jennifer used to joke with Chase that he was her "back up plan" if things didn't work out with Uncle Matt. Their wedding anniversaries are now just days apart... and 24 years. Oh the memories. 

I am grateful for the choice they have made to love in every season of life. They endured some tough stuff even before they wed. Jennifer's dad died, suddenly, just a few months before their wedding. I will never forget my eyes tearing up as I watched her little brother, Jeff, bravely walk her down the aisle filling some big shoes. As Marc Brown wrote in his "Arthur" series:

"Sometimes being a brother is even better than being a superhero."  Brothers are priceless.

Matthew and Jennifer have a strong sense of family. It is a part of the "cord of three strands that is not easily broken". The scriptures teach the importance of family and Matt and Jennifer were both taught to honor family. They are a blessing. 

Randy's brother, Monte and his beautiful bride, Jan, would have celebrated 35 years in about two weeks. What began as a friendship grew into a second chance at love... and a lifetime of love, laughter, children, grandchildren, family ties and hands joined in service to their Lord. I am grateful for what they taught us... the little brother and little sister-in-love... by example. 

I am so grateful for family in the best of times and in the worst of times. Love really does bear all things. Little brothers make life more bearable. 

"... Instead, use your freedom to serve one another in love.   Galatians 5:13

To serve one another... in love... as we were instructed to live.  It is the best choice.

Today, I am grateful for 28 Years... and little brothers.