Today, forty-six years ago, I walked out of St John’s Episcopal Church with Jacqui McEwen. To quote the Beatles, “The long and winding road that leads to your door Will never disappear. I've seen that road before. It always leads me here, leads me to your door.”

I have to think, if we are honest, that all marriages that go the distance travel that long and winding road. Not surprisingly, I have been reflecting on the road traveled.

First, let me say I married up. Those of you who know us know just how valid that comment is. However, that’s not what I want to write about today.

Muddy Boots has always been about the journey, lessons learned, and lessons shared. So, on reflection, the following:

1.     The secret sauce mixes friendship, space, dependability, common and separate interests, respect, presence, humor, affection, and boundaries.

2.     Shared dreams and both common and separate accomplishments.

3.     That children are a team sport.

4.     A common call of values, purpose, giving back, community, and faith..

5.     Family can be many things, as can friends.

6.     A dog can be a great therapist.

7.     Separate closets are a good idea, as are separate checking accounts.

8.     Common values matter, and there is a line.

9.     No matter what, you will be there.

10.  The road always leads back to your door and is always open.

11.  And at the end of the day, it is you and me.

Another song that comes to mind:

May your hands always be busyMay your feet always be swiftMay you have a strong foundationWhen the winds of changes shiftMay your heart always be joyfulMay your song always be sungAnd may you stay forever young

May you all share in the journey, may the wind be at your back, and may we be forever young and the door always open.

I am grateful she said yes.