Treasures in Jars of Clay...

This little button represents 37 years of Valentines together.

Back when we were brand new parents, we got a rare night out with our Sunday school group. There were couples of all ages, but we were the youngest and the most newlywed… so naturally… we won the Newlywed Game

And the big fancy prize?

This button.

Y’all, I love this button.

I met my Valentine in the fall of 1986, and our first date was on my 21st birthday. And somehow, all these years later, I still have this thing tucked away like it’s treasure.

And here’s the funny part… when I had to work on Valentine’s Day, I used to wear this button to work like a little badge of honor.

It used to irritate my love because he was convinced somebody might try to steal his kisses. (Bless it. Like I was out there handing them out at the nurses’ station)

She looks a little rough now… like she's seen some life. Because she has.

This button has been with us through highs and lows, through sweet seasons and yes… some years that felt a whole lot chillier than others. We’ve been through some stuff. Some REALLY hard stuff.

And yet… here we are. Still standing. Still choosing each other. Still holding on.

How?

Him.

We rely on the Lord daily. Not perfectly, but faithfully. And I’m convinced that’s the real love story.

“Many waters cannot quench love; rivers cannot sweep it away.”

Song of Solomon 8:7

“Love is patient, love is kind… It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”

1 Corinthians 13:4, 7

Happy Valentine’s Day from our little “seen-some-things” button… and two hearts that are still saying yes.