The proposal story of Jim and Carmen Cody

It’s Easter Sunday, the day of Jesus’ rebirth, rising three days after crucification; dying on the cross for the sins of mankind. But while most are celebrating His birth, I find myself mourning an unfair passing.

A friend of mine suffered a loss of unquestionable magnitude a few days ago. At only 26-years old, he lost his mother. They say the only thing certain in life is death and taxes, but for a kid in his mid-twenties, now is too soon to lose a parent.

Carmen Cody passed April 21, 2011. For those keeping track at home, I lost my grandmother February 21, 2011. Take all you know about 11s and 21s being lucky and throw them in the trash. I spent a third of my life growing up with the Cody family. Carmen treated me like a son; never hesitating to put any of in our place as she would a protective mother. Numerous Sunday nights were spent at the Cody’s enjoying Carmen’s famous Taco Pizza.

There are eight years worth of unforgettable stories with the Cody's, but one that immediately stands out is the story of Jim’s proposal to Carmen. In a week of pain and sorrow, I think a story this comical and cute deserves to be shared. Remembering the good eventually overpowers the bad.

Here is the story of James and Carmen Cody: The proposal.

On November 20, 1980 29-year old Jim Cody met with his 30-year old girlfriend of three years. Carmen had called the meeting to discuss the pair’s future and Jim couldn’t agree more about the much needed conversation.

Trying to decide who would speak first, the two finally settled with “ladies first”. With a heavy heart, Carmen broke it to Jim. She was breaking up with him. She was ready for marriage, commitment, children, and a life of building a home together. But standing in the way of her dreams, she thought, was Jim’s inability to commit. So she told him, she was going to move on if he wouldn’t commit to her. Little did she know…

Before Carmen called the meeting, Jim had intentions to call a meeting as well; a meeting about their future together. So he listened to Carmen’s words and sat in silence as she broke things off. And then it was his turn.

First he unveiled flowers. Then he lit the candles standing by. He set the homemade mix tape to play and got down on one knee. In a total shocker, at least to Carmen who thought he’d never commit, Jim proposed to her, ring in hand. This wasn't spur of the moment at all. This wasn't a last ditch effort to keep Carmen. This was planned.

On the same day she decided Jim's time was up, he had decided his life as a bachelor was up. If only Jim had gone first, the whole confusion could have been avoided, but then again, we wouldn't have the funny part of the story.

So he proposed, much to her surprise. And after letting him have it, she said yes. Because after all, it was Jim she wanted the life with, not anyone else.

Two days later, the newly engaged couple made one of the biggest decisions of their lives. Not able to contain their love, Jim and Carmen stole off in the night, eloping to Reno.

On November 22, 1980 Jim and Carmen Cody married.

They would change in a gas station bathroom before taking vows. The reception was a picnic in the park. The wedding cake was replaced by Hostess cupcakes. But none of the hoopla mattered. They were just two people, "happy as hell" and anxious to get their lives started. And best of all, eight months later the ultimate wedding gift came. She was named Melissa. Another child, a home, and 30 years spent together building and we're now in 2011.

With Carmen’s passing, most would say “Jim and Carmen were married for 30 years.”

I say, Jim and Carmen are married, going on 30 years strong.

Passing doesn’t end love. It doesn't end marriage either.

We’ll miss you Mrs. Cody. Though I know just as you did in life, you’ll always continue to watch over us.