With the Sargent Pepper music and words playing in your mind; It was 55 years ago on this very day a Minister gave us permission to play, through all these years, going in and out of style, our union is guaranteed to raise a smile. Karen and I were married on this very day in l971. The wedding took place in her parent’s front room with as many chairs as could fit. My grandmother was happy as a clam with a Methodist minister doing the honors. Karen’s family not so pleased as the Bishop was not the chosen officiant. It was a mostly memorable event, my brothers were there and felt a few shots of scotch would certainly be a good idea. We were on a tight budget so the event attendee’s who participated were subjected to Cold Duck as the alcoholic beverage of choice which paired well with the various forms of jello and bean salad available. The joy of the event was slightly dampened for some of us as the morning after was a bit painful, I will only tell you I have never had a glass of Cold Duck for the ensuing 55 years. All that said, it has been a marriage made in Ogden that has overcome the myriad tests of time. What is the secret? We have both been asked, for me, it is a partner you love, trust and respect, compromise, focus on family, persistence, and a sense of humor.
In case you were wondering, E. J. Gallo still bottles Cold Duck under the label Andre’. They call is a nostalgic party wine. The sweet, sparkling red wine, is 9.5% Alcohol by volume and is widely sold as an inexpensive alternative for gatherings. Our experience tells us that even at $5 per bottle it is not something friends should do for friends, especially in excess. Cheers, and we recommend Telaya, Dunham or Saviah for our current red wine of choice.
So many things happened in l971. Google Ai tells us that year was “a massive turning point for both world history and the landscape of modern music. Globally, it saw major technology breakthroughs, shifts in the global economy, and the ratification of critical civil rights amendments. Musically, it is widely considered one of the greatest years in rock and roll history.” Karen would like to forget “Joy to the World” as sung by the USU golf team. Better remembered are the Carol King “Tapestry” album, Don McLean’s “American Pie”, Led Zeppelin’s “Stairway to Heaven”, and still only a dream, John Lennon’s “Imagine” a timeless global anthem for peace. I want to highlight that only 10 days before our wedding the Kennedy Center Grand opening gala was held. Kennedy had endeared himself to the Public for his service and his ultimate sacrifice. President Kennedy “steered public discourse toward what he called ‘our contribution to the human spirit’. Every American should be “mad as hell” as the Orange Wanker uses the Center for his own ego and political ambition.
So what can possibly be in the future for a 55 year relationship. We are both still trying to stay healthy, it becomes more of a challenge each year. You could ask Karen or I how much fun we are having with our renewed visits to the gym with a trainer.
We are very fortunate to have two wonderful daughters, excellent son in laws, and most importantly and noteworthy three unique grandchildren. Hank, Clio and Margie will always make you smile while not always following instructions or protocol. They remind me of why it is so important to assure a great education system that exposes them to all factual data, embraces diversity, and gives them the critical thinking skills to develop an informed opinion.
Seems fitting to conclude with a little help from the Beatle’s. A question for Karen—-When I get older losing my hair—many years from now—will you still be sending me a valentine, birthday greetings, bottle of wine—If I’d been out to quarter of three would you lock the door? Will you still need me, will you still feed me—when I’m eighty four? I tell you what she says next week.
Enjoy the beautiful fall weather. Mike
Cold Duck
