I was 18 years old when I met and fell in love with Wayne and Judy's son, Craig. He was 22 at the time, had recently moved home from college, and we had only dated for 30 days when we got engaged. This is the story of how we broke the news to my future in-laws:
After Craig proposed to me, we went home to his parents' house to tell them our news. It was approximately 10:30 in the evening and they were both up watching Cheers, and Judy was doing some ironing.
As we walked in the door, Judy said to Craig, "Honey, what have you done to your hair?"
Craig responded, "I got it cut today."
"That's a terrible haircut. Where did you get it done at," Judy asked.
"Just down at the barbershop on the corner."
"Well, you can't go back there again, sweety. That is just a terrible haircut," she said with some emotion.
"Well," Craig responded, "here's some more potentially upsetting news: We're getting married."
The announcement was received by dead silence . . .
Then Judy finally said, "I just can't believe that haircut . . ."
I was terrified! This was my future mother-in-law and it was apparent her misgivings about our decision were so significant that she couldn't even respond! Wayne finally jumped in and said, "Well, that's exciting for you kids," and the conversation moved on. Judy came around and, thankfully, quickly embraced me and welcomed me into the family. I have always been impressed with the love she has shown me, even in the face of all the risks I'm sure she saw ahead of us that Craig and I were too blinded by youth and giddiness to see for ourselves. But we've made it through with flying colors so far, and hope our 18 years of marriage will continue until we hit the 50 year mark and beyond, just like Wayne and Judy.
Jenny Hoppie
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