Can you imagine being in love with someone for 74 years? It feels nearly impossible to imagine … and yet something I would welcome with open arms in my own marriage. The amount of moments shared and experiences lived is far too great to count. When I look at these photos of Don and Penny, I see hands and feet and faces and hearts that have been through nearly 100 years of moments and experiences. It’s truly inspiring.
Don and Penny are high school sweethearts, introduced by two of their best friends who were also dating at the time. “We met and that was it!” Penny told me. She and Don were inseparable from that moment on. Well, except for when Don was enlisted for two years while she finished high school. “He was home in time for my graduation.” Don proposed shortly after and I bet he had no idea at the time that 74 years later, he would still be doing life side-by-side with his bride.
Both Don and Penny are cancer survivors, and their strength and zest for life is so apparent spending time with them. They are so proud of their four children, and many grand- and great-grandchildren. I learned their three sons live nearby and rotate checking in on them every day, as they still live together in their beautiful home! What more could you ask for as a parent? To be surrounded by your family and daily witness the impact you have had on their lives.
As I’m sure many people who meet Don and Penny do, I asked their best marriage advice. “One argument doesn’t mean you’re heading for the divorce courts!” Penny giggled. I don’t think she stopped smiling the entire session. She shared that it’s important to remember every relationship has conflict and being able to work through your differences is truly what makes a marriage stronger. She also told me later on that every night before bed, she kisses Don on the nose and tells him she loves him. Maybe that is really the “secret” after all — to never stop reminding your partner how loved they truly are.
We should all be so lucky to live so long and be loved and to love so well!!
Cancer at 32 puts a fiber point on the beauty of living.
I agree, Nadine! Life can feel so “unfair” at times. Sending you love and a gigantic hug <3