The yearly column about my long-suffering partner was due last week. But Old Mate got the jump on me and posted a photo of us 43 years ago. That’s right, last week it was the anniversary of when we first met. Unlike my wedding anniversary column, this one is a little more brutal on both parties.
I first saw her when she was taking her oldest boy to junior footy at Maroochydore, where I was the resident footy tragic – probably the only thing I had in my life and I clung on to it with both hands. I know: pity I couldn’t hang on to a footy that well.
I remember seeing her and being impressed, but that was about it until I ran into her at Mooloolaba Surf Club on Easter Sunday, after footy. While I had trouble conversing with her (as I may have had a few beers), it was decided that we would meet the following week for a game of squash – which we did.
When I picked her up, I discovered there were two kids. One was in a nappy and screaming his head off. Now, she probably told me on the first night, but the beers may have impacted my memory (and have been for the past 43 years, by the way). Anyway, we went to squash. She probably won. But when we came back, I hit the jackpot: she had ice cold beer and crab for lunch. It was definitely love at third sight.
That blossomed into 43 years (where I can’t ever remember being handed a cold beer ever again). But I have been guided through those years with an occasional critiquing on how to put a lid on a Tupperware dish, how to fold a blanket, how to wash up and stack things on a draining board. I have also learnt that if she is crook, only ask her once a day how she is or be prepared to get my head ripped off.
I am a better driver when she sits beside me, as she is volunteering for the Traffic Branch and knows all the rules.
Seriously, though, Old Mate saved me – there is no doubt in my mind. If it wasn’t for her, I would probably not be here at all. She gave me two boys who ended up adding on a daughter-in-law and two grandkids, which I am so grateful for. And all of them have made my existence purpose built.
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Whatever I said to her that night at Mooloolaba Surf Club helped change my life. I just wish I could remember it.
Love you, Sheila.
Ashley Robinson is Mets Caloundra CEO, chairman of Thunder Netball and a lifetime Sunshine Coast resident.
