Deborah Jean Stallard, born in 1962 in the great state of Virginia.  I met her at J. J. Kelly High School in Wise Virginia in the 6th grade.  I had just moved to Wise from California.  My parents saw fit to move us from California because the smog was literally killing me.  I didn't really have any interest in Debbie until our sophmore year of High School.  A good friend dared me to ask her out because she was MISS POPULAR.  I knew she wouldn't say no so I asked her out.  She did say no and the challenge was on.  She would go out with me and she would like me.  Only problem was that during the chase I fell head over heels in love with Deb.  28 years of marriage later, I continue to rejoice she finally gave in and came to her senses.  I may have lost the bet with my buddy, but I got the best end of the deal.

Your probably wondering why I'm telling you this, fair question.  I work with married couples on a regular basis.  And if a couple is sitting on my couch pouring out their hearts it isn't because they're happily married.  Its because were on the virge of divorce. 

I counsel young couples before weddings and see that look of passion and love I don't see in the older couples.  What happened?  How do so many couples go from opposites attract to oppisites attack?  My heart breaks for the spouses, children and all involved when families are torn apart.

After 28 years I feel so fortunate to have a woman that I love so dearly and who loves me even if I am one screwed up individual.