A Love That Was Meant To Be

(Robert & Crystal - 16 Years Old)

Tonight my first and last love is flying from Korea to L.A. As I sit missing our familiar conversation and spontaneous laughter I ponder our history as a couple. I met Robert when I was 15 years old. We met at Christian Camp. I was his secret pal! We began dating the next summer at camp. I will never forget the week I fell in love with God, and an amazing Godly boy. I remember the car ride home informing my friends that I met the man I would marry. Everyone laughed and thought "yea right"!!! Here we are 17 years later. We dated shortly in high school and were head over heals in love. However, God continued to

tell my heart "not now". We remained friends throughout highschool and college. At the age of

21 we began our second round of dating. Wow! I will never forget sitting on the picnic

table at First Baptist Church of O'Fallon. He kissed me and I knew I would never be the same.

Actually I didn't know how I would make it home, as I was in a daze. We've been inseparable every since. I believe Gods' promises to give us the desires of our heart. Robert is my best friend! I can't imagine serving God with another partner. We've had a few down's in our marriage, but so many more up's!

After our summer of love. Robert and his dad drove me to Southwest Baptist University. I will never forget saying goodbye to Robert and seeing his eye's water as we parted ways. I knew in that moment he loved me more than anyone else on Earth. I knew I loved him more than anyone else on Earth. As we went our separate ways, I will never forget the sadness and pain in my heart. Several times that semester we met half way, or I drove to Indiana University with his parents. Every goodbye broke my heart. Each time I would cry as I drove away. June 10, 2000 we married. Life was so much better with Robert at my side.

So tonight after 10 years of marriage, I write this blog. My better half is headed to California for a conference. My heart aches for his return. Seem's silly and at times I am a bit ashamed. I am head over heal's in love with the man God has blessed me with! I will eagerly wait his return.

Robert, I love you! I miss you! You are a Godly leader in our home. Our boys have a true example of a Godly man. Thank you for loving us, providing for us, and making us miss you so much when you are away!