56 years ago today. Happy, optimistic, and oblivious to what lay ahead.

Each of us had 5 years of schooling ahead, 1+ undergrad more to reach goal of law degrees for both. We wanted to be independent and were clear we would do it without parents' help. And we did, thanks to scholarships, student loans, summer jobs, and my small cache of savings bonds. Also cash wedding presents helped a lot.

I still cringe a little at these photos: Note to Brides to be: Don't let your Mom talk you into letting her give you a home permanent a week before the wedding. Maybe Fabbers can help me get over it. I see frizziness next to my sisters' sleek mid-60's do.

I wore my sister's wedding dress--Mom had to sew in an extra panel down the back so I could fit into it. It was a very nice wedding.

And to make it more of a challenge, we had 2 kids during those first 5 years.

Here are some of the professional photos along with some color snapped by my b-i-l.