Couple celebrates 60 years of wedded bliss
"I spent my whole month's pay of 99 pounds - it was pounds in those days - on her engagement ring and she's still wearing it today."
Nowadays, everything seems to be instant.
It is practically the norm in this modern age, to find the quickest, most convenient way to do something, to match the fast-paced, on-the-go lifestyle.
With objects and relationships being replaceable, true quality is arguably a thing of the past.
One couple is bucking that trend however, and the Vryheid Herald was privileged to be part of their celebration, and share in some of their history.
Alfred and Elizabeth Boardman celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary last Thursday (27 June).
Alfred (86) – known to his English friends as Alf and to his Afrikaans friends as Fred, and Elizabeth (80) have lived in the same Heeren Street address since 1 January, 1980.
They have four children: Dean, Tyronne, Craig and Janine.
All of the children according to Alf, are happily married and seem set to follow the fine example set by their parents.
“We take each of our children’s and grandchildren’s husbands or wives as our own, so therefore, we actually have eight children, 15 grandchildren, five great-grandchildren and another one on the way,” explains Alf.
When asked what the secret to making a marriage work for so long is, he is quick to say: “Jesus Christ. We could not have made it without Him. Another thing, you have to know when to use the zip,” he laughs, gently pressing his thumb and forefinger together and pulling them across his lips.
“Oh, definitely the zip,” agrees Elizabeth. “Respect, love for each other and the Lord. He is in control. And no cheek. I do not tolerate cheek from anybody, especially the children. Love is the source of all life and all my ‘sweethearts’ – my children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren know what I expect.”
The love which can be seen and even felt between this amazing couple, is a true inspiration and testament that in today’s hustle and bustle, there is still a reason to have faith in humanity.
At this point, Elizabeth grabs a small piece of paper and writes out a few words:
‘Hit Song 1959
I’m saving my money to buy you a rainbow,
A rainbow to put on your finger,
When I have bought you the rainbow
I will buy you the moon’.
“Those words refer to my wedding ring,” she smiles.
Alfred adds with an equally broad smile, “Yes. I spent my whole month’s pay of 99 pounds – it was pounds in those days – on her engagement ring and she’s still wearing it today.”
Congratulations to Alfred and Elizabeth – may you be blessed with many more happy and healthy years together.
Also read: Muller couple celebrate 65th wedding anniversary – Now that’s amorè
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