Perfect Gift

The forecast for Friday, May 2nd predicted only clouds and rain, yet looking back, I could not have imagined any more beautiful of a day. And so it was, on a bright and sunny day soon after the church clock tower announced twelve noon, I proposed to Jennifer Marie on a bridge in downtown Frankfurt.

After visiting Jennn this past February and seeing that despite a distance of four thousand miles keeping us from seeing each other for six months, our relationship was stronger than ever, I had no doubts as to our next step. Our next planned time to be face to face was in July when she would take a month back in the States, but I knew I did not want to be constrained to only our semi-annual meetings for this event. So with much insider help from her fellow Central European missionaries, Tara Rooney and Rick and Amy Blythe, I began putting together a surprise appearance for when Jennn would be visiting with them in Germany.

In the months preceding the May Day weekend I picked up tickets, bought a beautiful ring (much thanks to Amy Partlow for her help), and asked her parents for permission (much thanks to the Herzbergs for their blessing). And so I found myself that gorgeous Friday, standing on a footbridge over the Main River holding the woman I love (much thanks to Jennn for saying "yes").

Not that I needed anything else after being overjoyed those first few hours in Frankfurt, yet the rest of the weekend turned out to be a wonderful time as well with relaxing afternoons, pleasant walks, and wonderful meals at the Blythe family home. And so now I am back in New York, and back to the messy kitchen in the apartment and unfinished tasks at work, but this smile is still on my face. And as continue with this everyday life, I'll also be looking forward to next year where a new and exciting time awaits.

"Every good and perfect gift is from above." (James 1:17)

(And above all, much thanks to God!)

Steve