December 30th, 1995

She ascended the staircase, slowly, and with not a little trepidation. When she reached the top she paused. On the threshold…she looked up.

In a small side room he paced. Back and forth, back and forth; an anxious child awaiting the arrival of a best friend. Nervous, tired...but truly happy. It had, in fact, been the best week of his young life.

It did not begin that way. A fierce battle with a hearty bowl of mushroom soup left him briefly shaken in constitution - if not stronger in character. Fortunately, the arrival of family and a healthy dose of new fallen snow proved a soothing balm for both his body and his soul.

The memories born that week were numerous as the falling snowflakes - and piled just as high. The countless carefree romps down the steep snow-covered hill…and the slightly slower trek back to the top. The well-intentioned, though ultimately ill-advised, off road excursion through the mounting snow that ended in a deep drift…and a long cold hike back home. The nurturing warmth of family, friends…and hot chocolate.

The fleeting moments with her.

His youthful crush on that joyous season grew only deeper with every inch of snow that fell, every breath of laughter shared, every thoughtful embrace engaged, and every tender word spoken.

And now the preacher, his own beloved father, gave him a knowing nod; a simple gesture that said more than could possibly have been spoken. He strode cautiously, but confidently the final few steps and took his place at the foot of the platform. Then he turned and looked back.

There she stood; a vision of snow white and autumn red. A countenance more fair never graced so humble a doorway. He caught her gaze and was overcome with…well…he was simply overcome.

She approached his presence with graceful confidence; a sense of divine assurance uprooting any stem of doubt, assuaging any twinge of fear, and snuffing out any trace of regret. Released hesitantly, but in love, by her own adoring father to the security of noble aspirations, they finally drew close.

She clutched his cold, trembling hand as his brittle heart likewise grasped for hers.

Fourteen years has only strengthened that grasp.

Fourteen years ago - December 30th, 1995.