REVved - Michigan With Mom and Dad

I shuttled Mrs. Rev to DIA this morning for her much anticipated trip to visit her parents in Michigan.  On April 3, Don & Margie (Nicholson) celebrated 60 years of marriage.  Unfortunately, we were not able to join them on that day.  We planned this trip for Jan for a number of reasons, including the fact that she wanted to be with her parents during this very special season of celebration.  She left today and will return next Thursday.  Although I already miss her, I know she is going to have a wonderful week with her parents.  The photo is a newspaper clipping announcing their 60th!

It's intriguing to watch Jan cherish her parents....though, because of God's calling in our lives...from a distance!  Everyone knows that "honor your father and mother," is one of the 10 Commandments.  Jan does.  She always has. 

I still recall watching her relate to her Mom and Dad when we first met.  I particularly loved watching her respond to her Dad.  Like most guys, I knew that the way a girl relates to her Dad is likely (though not always) a harbinger of the way she will relate to her husband.   In those early years of our relationship, I saw how she respected, loved, and looked up to her Dad.  She didn't have any issues of rebellion or mistrust.  "Daddy" was her hero.  He provided for her.  He protected her.  He was a successful businessman, husband, and father.  She was proud of him and spoke about him all the time.  I liked that.  She still loves her Daddy.

When I look at the way Jan's Mom impacted her, the main thing I observed in those early years was an uniquely open relational style.  Jan's Mom has an ability to make strangers feel accepted, and to make friends feel extra special.  Jan does the same thing.  Her relational warmth probably comes from watching both of her parents relate to people in business, at church, and in their home.  I can't even begin to tell you about the musical legacy that Jan's Mom passed along to her.  I've told you about this in previous posts - Margie is a "musical magician!"  When Jan plays the piano in our home, or when we are singing together in the car or in church, I quietly thank the Lord for this part of my wife's background.  It's priceless.

It's not been easy to live away from the Nicholsons for the past 26 years.  I'm 100% convinced that God called us to Colorado in 1982, and I'm also grateful.  But, the 1,200 mile distance from our families has created some sadness, and even at times, a sense of loss.  In the past few years as Don and Margie's health created some challenges for them, being away has been doubly difficult.  That's why I am so happy that Jan is able to spend time with her dear parents this week.  She speaks with them by phone nearly every day, and on some days, multiple times a day.  She lives their lives vicariously, I think.  Jan's love for her parents is inspiring.   I hope they have an awesome week!