Today marks the 38th anniversary of mine and Bob’s marriage. Thirty-eight years is quite a long period of time most ways I look at it. My career was pretty long, but it didn’t last 38 years. We haven’t lived in our house for 38 years…… yet.
I did a quick search on the internet for things that last a long time. Some of the items I found that might last 38 years were Tupperware, Henkel knives, and a Dutch oven. (I think some of my Tupperware is close to 38 years old, in fact.) We still have a few wedding gifts that have lasted, like our china and flatware, and an electric skillet my cousins from Washington gave us. The bottom line is that in my world, most things usually have to be replaced at some point because they’re either broken and can’t be fixed or I just want a new one. Maybe that’s why this anniversary is a marvel to me that I am so grateful to be experiencing.
Since today is opening day, I looked up who was wearing #38 for Bob’s Dodgers and my Giants 38 years ago. Dave Goltz was pitching for the Dodgers that year and Greg Minton was pitching for the Giants. Mr. Goltz had 7 wins and 11 losses, and Mr. Minton went 4 and 6. Unfortunately neither had great seasons that year, even though both of their careers lasted over 10 years. The Dodgers nor the Giants have a #38 on their rosters right now, so I guess I’ll just have to cheer for all the Giants.
I also looked up what kind of gifts you’re supposed to give for a 38th wedding anniversary. The website I found basically said there is no recognized name or gift for the 38th anniversary and that the traditional gemstone is Beryl, a colorless mineral with different impurities that are responsible for a great color range in the stone. I figure that is pretty appropriate for Bob and me.
Our 38 years together by most standards are not that remarkable and certainly have been filled with plenty of impurities, but just like the stone, those impurities are what have given it plenty of color and flavor. Life gives us highs and lows to go along with the level road. It’s tough to appreciate the highs without ever experiencing some deep lows, and just like in Beryl, those differences that make the stone interesting, also have given us a life that has been a joy to live.
Beryl is also said to bring creativity, reduce tiredness, and increase intelligence. I don’t know about the increase in intelligence but living a life with Bob has certainly inspired me to appreciate creativity as he as also helped bear my burdens.
So, Happy Beryl Anniversary to my sweetheart. Thanks for 38 years. Here’s to looking forward to many more. (and Go Giants!!)