Magdalene Masters stood in front of her full-size pewter mirror. For the last hour, she'd been trying on assorted outfits while her daughters conveyed their opinions on them. Her anniversary remained only a few days away. Every anniversary either Mag or Vlad would surprise the other. This year was Vlad's turn to surprise Mag with whatever he'd arranged for their anniversary.
They gave each other slight hints of what they'd planned. So they wouldn't be over or underdressed for the occasion. Vlad had disclosed to his wife that she should wear something nice but casual. Wherever they were going didn't require any formal attire, simply something nice but comfortable. Mag turned from the mirror, holding up an outfit.
"Okay, girls, do you think this one will do?" she held up a soft gray shirt with a bit of lacing to it. The pants were ebony and lightweight, with comfy shoes to go with them.
"I like it, Mom. It's nice looking and seems comfortable," Jazz replied honestly. The red-haired teenager truthfully wasn't one to fuss regarding apparel herself. Nevertheless, she wanted to help her mother out. Not that she felt her mother required much help with her clothing. Magdalene Masters was one of those individuals who looked fabulous in anything.
"I believe if you wore a matching headband and studs, it'd be perfect, Mom. But, then, you can wear either a simple necklace or a bracelet to dress it up more. Not sure if I'd do both, though," Danielle replied, eyeing her mother's jewelry box sitting on the nearby vanity.
"Hmm, I believe you're both correct. As for accessories? I'll wear my imitation diamond studs and my gold cross necklace," as she hung up the outfit. Then she turned back towards her daughter before asking, "So where is your brother right now? Please tell me he didn't shut himself in the observation tower again. I understand he's passionate about outer space. However, I'd like him to be a bit more grounded," as the girls laughed at their mother's word choice.
"I believe he and Dad went into town to acquire something for your anniversary. I'm not entirely certain, but I believe that's where they're at," answered Jazz.
"Alright. Now you two should get to the music conservatory. Danny may be cutting music practice, but you two are not," their mother informed them. So, nodding, the girls went to rehearse their flute and violin. Even though they preferred having Danny play the piano when they practiced. However, seeing how he was out, they only had their instruments.
An hour and a half later, Vlad and Danny returned. Magdalene straightaway sent Danny to the music chamber to do his hour's worth of practice before dinner. He went without objection. Mag then turned to her husband, who promptly kissed her. As they caressed each other, she eventually whispered.
"Vlad, darling, did you truthfully require our son to help you with your errand? The children have music practice every other day from four to five. So now we'll have to push dinner back so Danny can get his practice in."
"Darling, I highly doubt missing one day of practice is going to impact Daniel's proficiency to play the piano." Mag scowled, so he promptly added, "Yes, I needed a bit of assistance. After all, our daughters were assisting you in selecting your attire. In addition, I required our son's aid with picking out which champagne to celebrate with. After all, you know how busy the regional liquor store can be at this time of day."
Again, Mag frowned. "Honey, please remember we don't want to set a bad example for the children. I don't mind having an alcoholic beverage for specific social occasions. However, I don't desire our children to consider it acceptable to drink around the clock."
"I thoroughly understand, Mag. But, unfortunately, I required a bit of extra assistance to uncover a bottle of high-grade champagne."
"Okay, as long as you understand my wishes. Our beloved daughters helped me pick the perfect attire for the day after tomorrow. So we're good to go."
"That's fantastic, Mag. Before you ask? I have already arranged for a professional gymnastics team to perform for Danielle's birthday. Trust me. She'll enjoy it."
"I'm sure she will. Considering she'll get to meet her heroes for her 12th birthday. Speaking of which, I better help her pick out her outfit for her party. Unlike Jazz, who could care less regarding her wardrobe? Our youngest is keener on being fashionable."
"Understood. I'll go put this away where the children can't get to it," indicating the bottle of champagne he picked up. Then, with a final kiss, each went their own way.
Two days later, Mag was at a concert staring her favorite Christian musical group, "Casting Crowns." They were performing all her favorite songs, and she sincerely enjoyed herself. After the show, they went home to snuggle around the open fireplace while savoring their exceptional champagne.
Sincerely a marvelous anniversary.
"Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs."1 Corinthians 13:4
"Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves." Romans 12:10
"Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the spirit through the bond of peace."Ephesians 4:2
"Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you." Psalm 143:8
"Though the mountains be shaken, and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken, nor my covenant of peace be removed, says the Lord, who has compassion on you." Isaiah 54:10
