I Thank God... Day 19

My parents divorced when I was 9. My dad had moved to a little town half way across the state, so we didn't see him as often as I wished. We did see him as often as he was able to come, however. I'm thankful for that. We always looked forward to seeing him. My little brother, John, and I would drop everything in excitement when we found out he was in town.

One night, when I was in junior high, we had a little surprise. Dad took us out to dinner at Red Lobster. In our town and our experience, that was a pretty fancy place. He introduced us to his friend Annie. I liked her. She was cheerful and friendly. Well, he'd never introduced us to a girlfriend before. So, in my junior high romantic mind, that meant he wanted to marry her. When Annie and I went to powder our noses, I asked her something like, "So, when are you and Dad getting married?" I'm sure she nearly swallowed her teeth! I don't remember what she said; but, I do remember shock registered on her face. Ah, the pleasures of childhood. ~grin~

Well, I was right. Annie joined our family. She's now our Granny Annie. First, however, she had to rub off a few of my rough edges. She is the one who introduced me to exotic vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower, my favorites. She is the one who took me shopping as a senior in high school, and again during my freshman year, and helped me choose a wardrobe that was more grown up and pretty. She's the one who helped me make my veil and plan my wedding. She's been a wonderful part of my life, a refining part of my life. I'm more beautiful as a woman because of her efforts and influence she's had on me.

So today, I thank God for my Annie. Thank you Annie for touching and changing my life. I love you. Thanks for bringing her to dinner, Dad!

Laura

Blessed with Love