Dale and Shirleen History: The Way It Goes

We (Maria, Dale and I) are nearing the end of months on this project of writing our family history. It is not the end of a couples story but just a small clip of their earthly journey, also an atoms view of where it all began and where it will continue. Hidden from our view is the beginning and purpose of God's plan for us, likewise the future path is hidden from our seeking eyes. Having faith that our loved ones on the other side will greet us warmly, and especially that Jesus Christ will be at the end to take our hands. We hope we will have passed our purpose and tests while we served here on earth. No other goal seems more important!

The Way It Goes

We left our parent's tender care -

Together - it seems like endless years ago.

We made sacred eternal vows to honor, cherish, and obey,

No matter in poverty or riches, happiness or tears.

Young we were, but our goals were too,

Successfully sprout our golden dreams.

Many possibilities, promises, and treasures

Were in our path to earn, or as it seemed.

Thinking back to our yesterdays.

Adventure and love kept us a aglow.

Not seeing future's hidden bumps, dips, and ruts,

Placed along the way to help us grow.

It seems so long, long ago.

Those goals of youth now gone - unable to recall it all.

As our dreams turned to dreams eternal -

Finding testimony and purpose for life's journey, as we went along.

Never reaching a rainbow end or those first goals.

Nor obtaining a lot of silver and gold,

But oh, our children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren

They are our treasure, fourfold.

Now, we somewhat helpless, watch them play the role,

But gladly advise, and help when tears begin to fall.

But most often saying, "We know, it's not easy but worth it.

Pray, ask Him. He sees all from beginning to end.

Life's evening shadows are closing in,

They are nearer now than when we commenced,

But that is the way it goes.

We love YOU ALL more than words can say. Stand tall!

Isn't that the way it goes?

Seems familiar, somewhere in life's dusty woes,

Are aged parents telling US to square shoulders and do your best.

Oh yes! That is the way it goes.

Not many years ahead our 'kiddos' evening shadows,
Will close in mimicking 'neer' the same.
Having said to loved ones square shoulders and move ahead,
In faith, as that is the way it goes.

Shirleen Van Leuven

January 2005

Revised November 8, 2016

Our Treasure at the End of Our Rainbow
We can be sure many changes are ahead, but as of today 12 December, 2016 this is the way we are.

50th Wedding Anniversary

Back row left to right; David and Richelle, Blake and Maria, Blair and Charidi, Trent and Alaina (holding KinLeigh), Robert and Kati, Michelle, Cody, (holding Callie, Shaun and Rayma, Dale Ray and Myra ( Myra's daughter Marissa), Colby, Justin (holding Fynlie).

Second row left to right; Kyle, Adrianne, Chenille, Kenndi, Dale, Bradley, Shirleen, Braxten, Cassia, Devyn (holding Trace), Lynnzie.

Front row left to right; Shelby and Delaney, Samantha and Tayler, Shaylynn, Kylee, Breesia (Marissa's daughter) Bre' Anna, Korven, Jayden

Dale Ray's Family

Dale Ray with his two youngest that are still living at home.
Bre'Anna and Colby
October 2016

Justin's family.
Left to right - Trace, Lynnzie holding
Fynlie, Justin holding Declan

Chelsea and Cody
married, summer 2017

Callie
Cody and Tera's
raised by her father
Cody

Devyn

Cassia and Kellin
Devyn's

Trent D.'s Family

November, 2016
Left to right - Kaden Lee holding son Kashton, Mackley (Kaden's wife),
Trent and Alaina with Korven and Kenndi in front, Chenille,
Robert and Kati Johnstun with daughters in front of them.
Shaylynn, Charidi holding Navie and Blair Beyer (dog -Gidget)