Take a look at this young clear-eyed couple.
Or at least out of the Old West Picture Gallery.
The (rather costumed and posed) photo was taken nearly 40 years ago of my wife and myself. Yes, that is truly SWMBO (She Who Must Be Obeyed) . . the love of my life.
Let's take a closer look.
They look to be filled with hope and confidence as they head into the future.
Today it is exactly 40 years since we were married. We don't look much like that anymore. And, as the oft-told story goes, "...man, what a ride!" We've covered a lot of territory in the past 40 years, had some great and some not-so-great times. Amazingly, we're still together and content to stay that way until the trip is over.
Some of my long-ago friends have said in the recent past "my God, I'm amazed you're still alive." Considering some of my adventures I'm a little surprised at that myself.
But older age has brought less adventures, less risk-taking and perhaps even some common sense. Most of that I owe to the beautiful gal who has stayed at my side all of these years.
Whaddaya say, girl? Let's go for 50!
