Here is an excerpt from my private handwritten journal from 1994.
Please forgive me for all the clichés about love, but I was twenty years younger and writing for myself.
“… It was Friday night, October 7. Finally, seven o’clock came and Paul arrived. Wow! was all I could think. On the night we’d met, I guess he hadn’t been in his best form because this guy looked like he could melt my heart. I hoped I looked good to him too!
We dined at the Casa Grande, on Mexican food and sangrias, and had drinks at the T.G.I.F. club. And he was absolutely charming. He was funny, attentive, and generous with his money. I had a perfect time, for someone who was too nervous to eat much. We went back to his place and talked.
Then came the first kiss.
I was sitting on the couch and he was sitting on the floor next to me. The chemistry was overpowering to say the least. He said the sweetest things to me. The next thing I knew he was leaning back against my legs and I encircled him with my arms. Touching him felt delicious. He then turned to face me and kissed me gently. It was wonderful, too wonderful to describe.
Because his roommate might come home any minute, he suggested we go listen to his stereo in his room where we wouldn’t be disturbed. I said something like I wasn’t born yesterday, to which he laughed and reassured me I didn’t have to do anything I didn’t want to do.
He was a perfect gentleman, even though the physical attraction was very strong. We kissed and talked and just rested there on his bed until the sun came up. I got home around 6:30 or 7:00 and went to bed. What a beautiful night!
Paul called me late that morning and I told him what a wonderful time I had. Then, being pretty sure what the answer would be, I asked him if he would like to come over that night. He said he’d be there. I was on cloud nine….
…I could go on and on describing those first few dates in glorious detail, but let me simply say Paul swept me off my feet and I knew I was smitten. The weekend following our first date, he asked me to “go steady”, and I said yes. A few weeks later he told me he loved me, and I told him I loved him too. We were so compatible from the very start. Everything feels so right. I love him more than I ever thought possible.
I would never have chosen to start a new relationship so soon after the breakup of my marriage, but in this case I believe Fate played a hand in bringing us together at this time in our lives. As Paul often says to me, we were meant to be together, not before, but now when we were ready for each other and could better appreciate the depth of our love.
I could have said no, I won’t go out with this guy because it seems too soon, and then miss out on ever finding a true soul mate, which is how I see him. He’s so kind, so sincere, and very intelligent. I can’t imagine a sweeter man for me…”
Okay, I better stop transcribing right there, before I share EVERYTHING and completely embarrass myself. 🙂
Happy 20 year Anniversary of our first date, Paul. ❤

Another Look Back: The Day We Met
That sounds so lovely and romantic. And 20 years on you are still the same in love with the man who swept youoff your feet. He must be a very special man and you a special woman for him. I hope you had a great time out celebrating your anniversary.
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Thank you, Ute. He is special to me, that’s for sure. We’re far from perfect but we seem perfect for each other. 😊
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This is why people keep journals–to remember these feelings. I am so touched. I hope Paul didn’t mind you sharing!
And–thank you for honoring me Friday. I didn’t know until people started dropping by saying, ‘Jen sent me’. You are wonderful.
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Hi Jacqui, my pleasure to throw you a bouquet. I thought you would have gotten a pingback notifying you. Odd you didn’t (?). Regardless, I’m glad you liked it.
Whenever I blog personal stuff about Paul, I always get him to read it and approve before I hit publish. I figure he has a right to do so after all! 🙂
Jennifer xo
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Oh gosh, this melted my heart! I love hearing about other people’s romances, and this was so sweet. Happy 20th anniversary!
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🙂 🙂 🙂 Thanks, Caitlin. I knew you’d like this one!
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A sweet sharing, Jennifer, congratulations on 20 years 🙂
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Thanks, Andrea. xo
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Heartwarming ~ thanks for sharing ~ you give us all hope! ♥
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It’s a pleasure, Yvonne. There is always hope. I’m living proof. 🙂
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You are inspiring and amazing Jennifer! ♥ I love that you share your living proof with all of us! xo
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Jennifer, I loved reading about your first date with your husband. Nothing is more wonderful than a happy beginning and a happy ending.
Blessings ~ Wendy ❀
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Thank you, Wendy. I agree. ❤
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Love it!
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Thank you, Julie. ❤
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Awww…..this is a such beautiful love story. Thanks for sharing! ≧^◡^≦
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You’re welcome, and thanks! 🙂
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The best kind of memories Jennifer keep them close to your heart. Love, surely does make the world go around when it is with the right person. Happy anniversary. Kath.
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Paul loved the little walk down Memory Lane as well. Thanks Kath! xo
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so beautiful ,a wonderful love story ,and you look so much in love.
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Thank you, Dorene. You know all about second loves too, hey? 🙂
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This was so very special, Jennifer–I got goose bumps! Congratulations to you and Paul. Eat, girl, eat! 🙂
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Goosebumps? Wow, thanks for telling me!
And I had a huge meal at the restaurant, ha ha. 🙂
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Thanks Jennifer for sharing this 🙂 I loved it!
Thank you bringing back wonderful memories for me as well ❤
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My pleasure, Val. I’m happy you enjoyed it! Falling in love is something most of us can relate to. 🙂
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I’m going to be embarrassed to look you both in the eye! I’m gonna have to tell you about my first kiss with Duke to put us back on an even playing field!
Second loves are fantastic, hey?
Janet Davis
http://www.nortonscovestudio.com | 709.536.2533
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Yes, Janet, do tell! Ha ha, I am a sucker for a mushy love story.
Second loves are fantastic — we all are living proof.
Jennifer x
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Oh Jennifer ❤ ❤ ❤ What a beautiful part of your life generously shared here. Happy 1st date anniversary Jennifer and Paul!!! ❤
Diana xo
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Thank you, Diana. I thought what the heck, it’s 20 years ago, ha ha. And I’m still crazy for him. But when we go out this evening to celebrate, I won’t be nervous. I’ll stuff my face. 😀
Jennifer ❤
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