Our journey began 40 years ago on New Years Eve, 1980. It was our first date together. I was 16 and Dan just turned 18. We had met a few months earlier at a very romantic place called Hardee’s.
Dan had planned the date, taking me to a restaurant called Avanti in Clinton, Iowa.
A few memories from that evening: Both of us being nervous, Dan in his polyester suit with athletic socks, Dan’s first drive to the Manning farm, Dan going to the wrong door, meeting the parents just to name a few.
This was the beginning of our dancing together. It was not ballroom, but shake your booty, kind of dance. We even did a few dances that had that highschool slow dance look. The kind you hang on each other. It makes me chuckle.
On that first date, we didn’t know what the future held. We didn’t know there was ever going to be a 40 year anniversary. But we did like each other and were hoping our relationship would continue. This was the beginning of our journey.
Here we are 40 years later, ready to celebrate a new year – 2021 – following after a very difficult year for so many all around the world, including us.
We do not know what the future holds, but we know Who holds the future! This is our hope for the New Year!
God’s Word-Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.(NIV)
Take time this New Year and dance together so you can keep your marriage close.
Happy New Year! Sending Love, Dan and Lori
Dance With Me Ministries 