He's been my best friend since I was 14...well, maybe 15

Ronnie, Ron, my boyfriend, my fiancee, 'Dear'... all names I've called Ron since I was 14 years old. I first met him when a friend told me she had 'someone I want you to meet. You'll just LOVE him.' Ron and her boyfriend were best friends...so we went to the high school to watch the end of their football practice. When the practice was over, she introduced us..and we all went to the Dairy Queen. I think it was that following weekend that Ron first asked me out.

Tomorrow is our anniversary...30 years. We had a few bumps in the road...most small, one huge - but always, he was my best friend.

Ron and I basically grew up together - me being 14 and Ron 15. We each have always loved each others family, everyone always getting along, truly loving each other. I think what we have is becoming increasingly rare. When the song "We Are Family" was played at the end of Lindsey and Donnie's wedding, I remember thinking how fitting that was - and hoping it would be true for our children and their new families too.

This was our Senior Prom in high school. Styles have changed a little, don't you think?This was taken in May, 1977, shortly after we were married. These 'styles' look the same!This was taken this week when we met Philip for dinner.