True Story

Almost exactly forty years ago in November of 1972, a couple of newlyweds flew from Northwest Louisiana to Colorado Springs to visit an uncle and while they were at it, take in some of the sights. Spontaneous as they were, they didn't exactly come prepared for the chill and while standing outside for a few moments was difficult, skiing was absolutely out of the question. It was then that the young man promised his bride that one day, they would come back prepared to ski the Rockies.

But their first baby came only a couple of years later followed by another and another and- surprise- another. Their Colorado aspirations were pushed to the back burner while diapers and music lessons and college tuitions took their place.

They grew older, their love deepened, but their trip never came.

And on this side of heaven, their trip never would happen because of a tragic car accident which cut the young man's life to 56 years.

Even so, the young lady still got to go to Colorado and ski even if it was forty years later and even if it was without her first love by her side. Perhaps her children and her grandchildren's presence was as consoling as the breathtaking scenery. Perhaps it fulfilled her dream- if only in part.