60 Years of Marriage

We took another trip to South Dakota, this time to celebrate the 60th wedding anniversary of Adam's grandparents, Wes and Donna Johnson. Although we missed out on the larger extended family gathering, Wes and Donna were able to visit with all of their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren over the past few weeks. We traveled back for the Easter weekend festivities, which allowed us to visit with old high school friends. I got a bundle of great new stories about Adam that I had never heard before and could not have made up if I'd tried!

The weekend was sunny and lovely. Weather-wise, Minnesota simply can't compare to South Dakota, at least not this spring.

Lazy dog, soaking up the rays.

Adam, Sarah, Grandma Donna Johnson, Mark, and - oops! - sorry Renee!

Happy 60 Years!

A small typo on the cake. 

We discussed freezing it for the next five years, but folks be hungry now!

It was rather remarkable to see and hear the stories of 60 years together, especially the "how we met" story at the roller skating rink and the first years together sharing one small house with family. Also, there was an actual Ole and Lena couple in the family tree, which I find fascinating, especially since I have no Scandinavian roots but secretly wish I did!

Also remarkable was the number of cards, greetings, and well-wishes from everyone they knew in the Mitchell and Mount Vernon communities and beyond. At our visit, still several days before the actual anniversary, over 180 cards had already arrived. The postmaster couldn't fit any more in the mailbox! I can't think of a better example of a well-lived life than that.

We missed out on the Wisconsin and Colorado cousins this time, but we hope to catch them again soon.

South Dakota and  Minnesota cousins represent!

Another TJ-approved weekend!