AboutOurCover....

A gorgeous wedding shoot at Hera’s Haven...where family and friends gather to bless a couple’s union and shower them with heartfelt wishes! A new venue has officially been unveiled...a haven...for weddings, special events, corporate gatherings, meetings or ministries...nestled in the countryside of Italy, Texas, on a soulful ranch. Read the full story in our centerfold and join us as we celebrate love in Ellis County!

CoverCredits:

Hera’s Haven. Jason and Laurie Photography. Margo West Bridal. Night Shift Floral. Phoenix Beauty Team. Taylor Lasiter, Model.

60

When I see the word “love”...I tend to initially think in terms of “romantic love.” Also words like joy, peace, faithfulness, respect, commitment, integrity, delight; and possibly covenant, all come to mind. Romantic love can seem somewhat elusive at times. If you find a true connection with compatibility...hang on and honor it. You know when you know and it’s most definitely something to celebrate! In this issue, we get a glimpse into some fabulous local weddings! Such creative ideas for the most special of moments... anchored by the backstory. I treasure stories and learning from others! Some of us have lived a series of love stories, and some have life stories. Some are blessed to have a love story and a life story as one in the same! I wanted to find one of those lifelong love stories right here in Ellis County. Iris and Charley Wilson, married 68 years, share their heartwarming response to my quest on Page 58. My own family is so blessed as we applaud my parents who celebrate 61 beautiful years this month! Unfortunately for some, they have loved deeply and lost. Be encouraged by my dear artist and author friend, Sara Thurman, on page 60. Whether single or partnered, loving well is important in all of our relationships. Not always easy! We are reminded in 1 Corinthians 16:14 to “Do everything in love!” Now even more words come to mind: forgiveness, kindness, goodness, and gentleness. Our relationship with God is the ultimate love story! His love is perfect. He pursues our affection, chases us down, and keeps His solemn oath and promise of His faithfulness...forever! We may fail in relationships with each other at times...but His love never ceases and it never fails. He forgives and never gives up on us! I’m still a student when it comes to the concept of love. My own prayer is to stay teachable and to love others well even amidst difficulties and disappointments. His love for us is a constant reminder for me to show grace, as I’ve been shown much grace! “And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love! Whoever lives in love, lives in God, and God in them.” (1 John 4:16)

Delight in Him and in each other!

Peace and blessings,

Psalm 37:4

Melissa McBride | Publisher & Curator | Editor@living-magazine.com

Lindsey Keeney | Creative Director | Lindsey@living-magazine.com

Mary Crook | Art Director | Mary@living-magazine.com

For