It all began in 1997 at Christmas time - at a Business dinner in Raleigh.
I, having been a widow for one year, found myself seated next to an
Executive at a business dinner in Raleigh.  His name was Barry
Eveland.  We happened to be the only two singles at the couples dinner
- thus the fate.  But we know it was not fate, it was the hand of our
awesome God, who placed us in those seats.

It was six months later when the next Business meeting was held in
Charlotte, that our first date took place.  I still remember every
detail, the nervous chatter, the shock of actually dating, the silly
dress concerns, the search for the right Restaurant, the awareness of
my attraction to this cocky charming and interesting man.  The
startled look on my face at the end of the evening when I wondered "oh
no what if he tries to kiss me"..., then the waiting by the phone in
case he should call.  I was like a teenager once again.  Giggles with
my girlfriends, talks with myself and my children.

The story goes on and on in vivid color and funny memories for the
next six months.  Then Barry asked me to go back to the 1998 Christmas
dinner as his bride-to-be - same venue, same people, and some bragging
by the host and the other executives who claimed the match making
credits.  But we knew who did the match making!

Ephesians 5:25 says "Husbands love your wives just as Christ loved the
Church and gave himself up for her"  That's how it has been.

Barry is sterling in his integrity, his character, and his love and
devotion for his entire family.  He is the strong tower I turn to, he
is my best friend, the one I trust with all my feelings, my dreams.
His love and support are Blessings beyond my hopes.  He is the Best
Husband in the world for me.  He has filled my life with so many good
things, so many special moments.  He has taught me how to live above
the fracas, he has given me guidance and direction when I am
scrambling, and he prays with me every day as we go through life.  He
is a quiet spirit, he does not hold grudges, he accepts me as I am
(well let's say he is learning to adjust to who I am in my crazy fun
life).  He's the priest, provider and protector of our home.

We all know Barry as the organizer of every piece of movable materials
- we have shelves, drawers, canisters, boxes, files; all marked and
labeled.  He can find anything.  He's the "Mr. Fix-It" and the mentor,
he is quality driven, fiercely loyal, a church servant, and community
contributor all with a servant's heart.  In a comedy duo scenario he
has the gift of the straight-man sense of humor.  His laughter is
contagious with friends who understand "old" people's humor....so fun
to be married to him.

Happy Happy 70th Birthday "Honey"!  Many many more wonderful years
together is my hope and prayer.  I love you for all the things you are
and all you strive to be.  I am one happy wife!