It wasn't love at first site for Maria and Del, those many years ago. That would be too fleeting, too temperamental. What they felt was different and, in some ways, something deeper. That first meeting twenty years ago ignited a spark, a connection that neither of them could name but both could feel. It wasn't love, not then. It was more like the recognition of a kindred spirit. In one another they had found a friend, someone who understood the importance of family. Someone who loved to pack a bag, get on a plane and see the world. Someone who saw the value in working hard and chasing your dreams. Someone with whom you could savor a delicious meal, sip on a nice glass of wine and just be yourself. Isn't that someone we would all look for? In one another, Maria and Del had found just that.
But they didn't know it. Not back then, anyway. Back in the '90's they had the same group of friends and felt that connection between one another. But they didn't act on it. It was just friendship. A special friendship that they cherished, but nothing more.
They say that time changes everything. And too often when we hear that phrase we think of the things that change for the worse. But just as often, it can mean that things can change for the better. Friendships can grow. Connections can turn from something undefinable to something undeniable. And that's just how it was for Maria and Del. It took them over a decade, but they figured it out. They realized that what they had was something special, something real, something that they wanted to nurture and grow. Once they became a couple, it was as though the whole world finally made sense. Now they have someone to share their family with. Someone to travel with. Someone to be there at home to talk to after a long day at work. Someone to encourage them to chase their dreams. Someone to cook them a delicious meal and pour them a nice glass of wine. Someone who loves them for exactly who they are. And has, for years. Even if they didn't know what to call it at first.
