• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer
  • Home
  • Bio
  • Bookshelf
    • Audio
    • Complete List of Chautona’s Books
    • The Rockland Chronicles
      • The Vintage Wren
      • The Aggie Series
      • The Hartfield Mysteries
      • Sight Unseen Series
        • Sight Unseen Series Archives
      • The Agency Files
      • Christmas Fiction
    • Legacy of the Vines
    • Meddlin’ Madeline
      • Madeline Blog Archive
    • Ballads from the Hearth
      • Ballads from the Hearth Blog Archive
    • Legends of the Vengeance
    • Journey of Dreams
    • Wynnewood
    • Webster’s Bakery
    • The Not-So-Fairy Tales
    • Heart of Warwickshire
  • Start HERE
    • Characters
    • Suggested Reading Order
    • Free Books
  • Blog
  • Contact
  • Podcast
    • Advertising
    • Podcast Guest Information
    • Podcast Interview FAQ
  • Nav Social Menu

    • Email
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
    • YouTube
  • Bonus
  • Speaking
  • New & Coming
Chautona Havig

Chautona Havig

Using story to connect YOU to the Master Storyteller

Twenty-Seven Years (i.e. WHOA!)

by Chautona Havig · 7 Comments

Twenty-seven years: That's how long it's been since our wedding day. Not to be confused with our "marriage" day. Two very different days. via @chautonahavig

That’s how long it’s been since our wedding day.  Twenty-seven years. Our “wedding day” is not to be confused with our “marriage” day.  We got married in Las Vegas on November 25, 1988.  But, three months later, on February 18, 1989, we still had our wedding.

I was just talking with my favorite server at Denny’s last night.  You know, I had my jaw wired shut for six weeks before the wedding–car accident in Iowa the week after Christmas.  I got really good at blending up hot ham and cheese sandwiches from Arby’s with a bit of milk.  And Jamocha shakes?  Lived on those suckers.  In fact, I drank so many that I can’t stand to think of one even today!

twent6-seven years

I was skinny back then…

… and six weeks of a liquid diet didn’t help. They kept taking in my dress until the week before the wedding when I got the wires off my teeth.  But, I still couldn’t eat more than a bite or three. So, on my wedding day, they zipped me up in my dress and it was still a bit… loose. Talk about under-exaggeration.  I can’t tell you how many times my photographer told me to “get back in your dress.”  You see, I’d be standing there, I’d turn, and my dress would stay in place.  Awkward!

weddingphoto

Tarnished Silver CoverWe’ve lived in the same house for those twenty-seven years.  We’ve raised six children and are working on the final three. In fact, three of our children were born right here in this house. I married my best friend, and the night he broke my jaw in a car accident is the night I truly fell in love with him.  That’s pretty amazing.

I’ll never forget laying on my in-laws’ couch, hurting too much to sit up, and hearing my husband sobbing in the kitchen that he’d “hurt me.”  My father-in-law came over to me, hunkered down to check to see that I was okay, and then said, “That man in there sure loves you.”

And he still does!  Even after twenty-seven years!

That just amazes me.  Especially when I figured out a couple of years ago that his “proposal” could have been a rhetorical question.  OOPS!

I told him not to tell me if it was. I don’t even want to know.  When a girl seriously and without reservation says she is NEVER getting married and her best friend asks, “Well, would you marry me?” And that same girl takes him seriously, figuring God is telling her something, the last thing she wants twenty-five years later, is to find out that it was curiosity.  Ahem.

Share556
Pin
Tweet
Email
556Shares
Share
Pin
Tweet
Email
556Shares

Related

Filed Under: General Information

Previous Post: « Character Interview: Kaye
Next Post: Taking Thoughts Captive = Spiritual Warfare? »

Reader Interactions

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

You have to agree to the comment policy.

Or, you can subscribe without commenting.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

You have to agree to the comment policy.

Comments

  1. patty-anne Lea says

    February 21, 2016 at 4:07 pm

    God has a sense of humour when he decides 2 people are meant to be.
    I was a divorce with 2 children. My ex husband had been a mechanic with kleptomania. There was enough stuff in my basement to build a D8 Cat.
    Friends from my church came over and we boxed all the stuff. And I put an add in the paper so I could sell the stuff and reclaim my basement.
    Well the only reply I got was from a fellow who could not afford to pay me. He asked if he could secure it with $10 and pay it off monthly. I had no other customers, so I said yes. I started to take his three sons to Sunday School and other Church outings.He made me promise not to convert them. I promised but did not promise anyone else would not convert them. I am pleased to say they all accepted the Lord.
    By this time Jim had fallen in love with me, his boys adored me, and i was fostering tender feelings for him.
    I could not be unequally yoked so would not accept his proposal of marriage.
    More time went by. Things started getting very difficult for Jim, One of my friends said she was fed up reasoning with him, she would stand back and let the Lord sort him out while she prayed. He phoned me one day,said “tell Sue to stop praying, I am ready already.”. Jim accepted the Lord. With the backing of our Baptist we married. So now I had a new husband 3 more sons and all the junk I had sold to him, and never got paid for, but got his junk as well.
    We had twenty wonderful years together until cancer claimed him.
    But as a dedicated neat freak, I married four of the most unorganized male creatures, with all their junk. So you can’t tell me God does not have a sense of humour.

    Reply
  2. Lonzine Lee says

    February 20, 2016 at 6:13 pm

    That is such a fun look back. Congratulations on 25 years. I already have Tarnished Silver, it’s one of my favorites outside of the Alexa books. Thanks for giving us such a great reason to smile.

    Reply
  3. Elizabeth says

    February 18, 2016 at 4:51 pm

    Congratulations, you two! I love how y’all love each other (It shows!) and I love your your kids are so much like both families! Wow! Everything about this post seems exclamatory!

    I love you, Chautona. I’m glad you said yes! 😉

    Reply
    • Chautona Havig says

      February 20, 2016 at 2:04 pm

      Aw, thanks!

      Reply
  4. Maria McGee says

    February 18, 2016 at 4:43 pm

    Happy Wedding Day Anniversary!

    Reply
  5. Katherine says

    February 18, 2016 at 1:15 pm

    Okay…now I really want to hear the whole story! How did you get engaged? Why did you marry in Vegas? Did you elope? Any more pictures????

    Nosiness can be a curse, sometimes 😉

    Reply
    • Chautona Havig says

      February 18, 2016 at 1:56 pm

      That’s how we got engaged. We were talking about life and what we were going to do. He was going to open “Mayhem Software” and I didn’t quite know. But I DID know that I was NEVER getting married. Not doing it. No. Way. No. How. And that’s when he said, “Well, would you marry ME?” I had one of those flash thoughts that work faster than seconds. I thought, “Either this guy is an idiot or this is a God thing.” I knew he wasn’t an idiot, so I figured God had a hand in this. So… that was it. September 1988 we got engaged. He bought a house a month later. He was to move in December 1. And if I moved in, too, that would save us 200 a month. SO… we drove to Las Vegas and got married so I could move in. Just had the wedding anyway. Pictures… I’ll have to dig ’em out. 😀

      Reply

Primary Sidebar

The Because Fiction Podcast

The Because Fiction Podcast
The Because Fiction Podcast

Taking the pulse of Christian fiction

Episode 155: Chatting with Heather Day Gilbert & Jen Cudmore
byChautona Havig

To Love a Viking by Heather Day Gilbert and Jen Cudmore has been released, and I got to chat with them about it last week. Guys, this series!  If the Christian influence on Viking history isn’t enough, what about adventure, fight scenes, and romance that won’t make you blush? How about that a damsel is in distress and… gets rescued by another woman instead of the stereotypical DUDE! Listen in!

Note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.

Are You Ready for an Exciting New Viking Series from 2 Great Authors?

 

One of the biggest surprises I recall from researching books by different authors was that the cozy mystery and suspense author I liked and respected, Heather Day Gilbert, had also written historical Viking books! I made the erroneous assumption that they were romance and skipped them (for the time being… I knew I’d read them some day), and then something happened.

A few months ago, I saw this cover.  With Heather’s name on it.  And some other gal I hadn’t heard of–Jen Cudmore.  What is this deliciousness?  The cover was AMAZING… not stereotypical nor was it inauthentic.  It was just GOOD (not to mention gorgeous) and with the Celtic frame (the Vikings did go over to Scotland/Ireland after all), I just felt like it hit all the sweet spots.

Well… the book is here, folks.  And I’ve got a copy in my hot little hands.  No, really. It’s July. And I live in the desert.  My hands are totally hot and in totally all the wrong ways. Just throwin’ that out there.

Anyway, Heather and Jen chatted with me about To Love a Viking, and oh my!  This book sounds fabulous. We know Viking women were strong. Even those that weren’t warriors had to survive Nordic winters. Ergo, strong.  But what about strong enough to build a new society with people they’d once fought against. Oh, and rescue a damsel in distress #BecauseYeah!

I’m ready to dive in to To Love a Viking myself, and I hope you’ll grab a copy, too. It promises to be incredible.

To Love a Viking by Heather Day Gilbert and Jen Cudmore

Get swept up in an enthralling new romance series featuring women who rule the hearts of Viking men.

ELLISIF Forced into a financially advantageous marriage that spirals into a nightmare, Ellisif cannot help but imagine what might have been and ache for what was lost. The only lights in her life are her daughters and the friendships she’s forged with the household servants.

Though seven years have passed since Ellisif wed another man, Dagar still cannot forget the woman who captured his youthful heart. As the Viking warrior battles for his country’s future, he finds himself entangled in a personal war for Ellisif’s freedom that could cost his family their reputation and standing with the king. If he risks all, can he save the woman whose face still haunts his dreams? And if given another chance, will she choose him?

INARA Escaped slave Inara is determined to start a new life. Under the guidance of warrior and shipbuilder Håkon, her sword skill grows, as does her confidence that the Viking men will accept her as a warrior in her own right.

When she is selected to lead a perilous rescue mission to protect Ellisif, Inara finds herself blindsided by feelings for Håkon…and by threats to her freedom far closer than she feared. As dreams and desires collide, she wrestles against the lies holding her captive. Can she conquer her doubts before all that she’s hoped for slips from her hands?

Written by award-winning historical author Heather Day Gilbert and fresh voice Jen Cudmore, two love stories entwine in this sweeping Viking-era romance, the first novel in the Tavland Vikings series.

You can find out more about the series and the authors on Heather’s WEBSITE.

Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at:

  • Apple 
  • Castbox 
  • Google Play
  • Libsyn 
  • RSS
  • Spotify
  • Stitcher
  • Amazon
  • and more!
Episode 155: Chatting with Heather Day Gilbert & Jen Cudmore
Episode 155: Chatting with Heather Day Gilbert & Jen Cudmore
July 1, 2022
Chautona Havig
Episode 154: A Chat with Romantic Suspense Author, Sami A. Abrams
June 28, 2022
Chautona Havig
Episode 153: A Chat with Historical Author, Tracie Peterson
June 21, 2022
Chautona Havig
Episode 152: A Chat with Contemporary Romance Author, Amy Anguish
June 14, 2022
Chautona Havig
Episode 151: A Chat with Christian Romance Author, Carrie Padgett
June 10, 2022
Chautona Havig
Episode 150: A Chat with Mystery/Thriller Author, Steven C Harms
June 7, 2022
Chautona Havig
Episode 149: A Chat with Jennifer Sienes about Night Songs (and more!)
June 3, 2022
Chautona Havig
Episode 148: A Chat with Author, James R. Hannibal
May 31, 2022
Chautona Havig
Episode 147: A Chat with Biblical Fiction Author, Jubilee Lipsey
May 27, 2022
Chautona Havig
Episode 146: A Chat about The Sweet Life by Suzanne Woods Fisher
May 24, 2022
Chautona Havig
Search Results placeholder

Join a Reading Challenge

2022 Write Reading Challenge

Love Audio Books?

audio book ad

Check out the Sparrow Island novels. A tiny island with a lot of heart

independence islands series

Featured Books

Finding a Memory

Finding a Memory
Buy This Book Online
Purchase with Paypal
Buy from Amazon Kindle
Buy from Amazon
Finding a Memory
Buy now!

Penelope’s Pursuit

Penelope’s Pursuit
Buy This Book Online
Buy from Amazon Kindle
Buy from Amazon
Purchase with Paypal
Penelope’s Pursuit
Buy now!

The Last Gasp

The Last Gasp
Buy This Book Online
Purchase with Paypal
Buy from Audible.com
Buy from Amazon
Buy from Amazon Kindle
The Last Gasp
Buy now!

Upcoming Posts

  • book chapter vows release (July 26, 2022)

Or just subscribe to the newsletter

Recent Blog Posts

  • This Book Is My Most Unexpected (and Loved) Read This Year
  • Are You Ready for an Exciting New Viking Series from 2 Great Authors?
  • Curious Minds Want to Know: What Is Your Absolute Favorite Book? Why?

I buy my stickers here! (affiliate)

Custom Stickers, Die Cut Stickers, Bumper Stickers - Sticker Mule

Footer

What Am I Working On?

Book, Chapter & Vows
Book, Chapter, & Vows
Phase:Week 3
Due:7 months ago
53.1%
Get Book Updates

Featured

Finding a Memory

Finding a Memory
Buy This Book Online
Purchase with Paypal
Buy from Amazon Kindle
Buy from Amazon
Finding a Memory
Buy now!

Dial W for Wrangler

Dial W for Wrangler

Disclosure:

Disclosure: Links on this website may or may not be affiliate links and as such, I may receive compensation from the retailer indicated for linking to their product. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Note: I DO NOT link to products that I do not recommend.

Privacy & Cookies. This website uses cookies (not the delicious kinds that make life grand) to do stuff it needs to do. By staying on the site, you agree to this evil substitution of yummy cookies for internet calorie-free substitutes. For more info, click here and read the boring stuff. Cookie Policy
The end of Finding a Memory had a twist I didn't e The end of Finding a Memory had a twist I didn't even see coming, and now... it's time to find out what happened... and get Mallory and Benjamin's story.  I can't wait to share it with you!
Releases July 26. Stay tuned for release day fun from Minnesota!  WOOT!  An #affiliate preorder link (at a discount) is in my bio.
#IndpendenceIslandsSeries
#ChristFic
#Preorder
#BeachReadsArentJustForSummerAnymore
The end of Finding a Memory had a twist I didn't e The end of Finding a Memory had a twist I didn't even see coming, and now... it's time to find out what happened... and get Mallory and Benjamin's story.  I can't wait to share it with you!
Releases July 26. Stay tuned for release day fun from Minnesota!  WOOT!  An #affiliate preorder link (at a discount) is in my bio.
#IndpendenceIslandsSeries
#ChristFic
#Preorder
#BeachReadsArentJustForSummerAnymore
It's July!!! Time for a new book from the Read You It's July!!! Time for a new book from the Read Your Bookshelf Challenge by @chantelreadsallday 
This is the first of two general market books on my list, though the last is a Thomas Nelson, so it may be as well. We'll see in December. 
#amreading 
#WWIIFiction 
#ReadYourBookshelfChallenge
Ever hear the saying "A poem a day keeps creativit Ever hear the saying "A poem a day keeps creativity at play?" 
Yeah, me neither.  Just made it up. But I think it's true.
#amreadingpoetry 
#poetry 
#emilydickinson
Dinner and the Gospels. It's a good life. #BibleS Dinner and the Gospels.  It's a good life.
#BibleStudy
#journible
Reposted from @lianaygeorge Are you looking for yo Reposted from @lianaygeorge Are you looking for your next summer read?  Searching for the PERFECT addition to your #bookstack?  Want to travel to another country without stepping through your front door?

I have the series for you!!!! ❤️❤️❤️

Now through July 4th, preorder Perfectly Placed (either digital or paperback) and get a digital copy of Perfectly Arranged FREE! 

All you need to do is purchase Perfectly Placed, DM or email me with proof of purchase, and I'll send you a digital copy of Perfectly Arranged.  It's that easy!!! If you've already read Perfectly Arranged you can gift it to the person of your choice.

Link in bio

#lianageorgewriter #perfectlyplacednovel #perfectlyarrangednovel #bookgiveaway #tbrpile #preorder #bookaesthetic #comingsoon #freebook
Reposted from @jennifer_sienes Do you have a favor Reposted from @jennifer_sienes Do you have a favorite Proverb?

#books #faithinfluencer #christianfiction #mustread #fiction #christian #jennifersienes #illusions #traumaticbraininjury #tbi #inspirationalfiction #christiancontemporary #christianwomensfiction #womensfiction #christianReading #authorsofinstagram
  • Home
  • Bookshelf
  • New & Coming
  • Blog
  • News!
  • Disclosure & Policies
  • Privacy Policy

Copyright © 2022 · Chautona Havig · All Rights Reserved · Coding by Gretchen Louise

Don't go before you grab your FREE short story collection!