Jean Marie River (July 16/04) - Isadore and Lucy Simon can vividly recount the details of their first encounter.

Lucy was working as a cook's helper at the Hire North camp in Fort Simpson 26 years ago. Isadore, a heavy-equipment operator on the Dempster Highway project, was passing through the camp one April day.

It's the look of love. After 25 years of marriage, Lucy and Isadore Simon renewed their commitment to each other in Jean Marie River on Saturday. - Derek Neary/NNSL photo

They caught each other's eye, and cupid's arrow struck.

Other than the physical attraction, Lucy said she came to love Isadore because he's a hard worker who is very caring and loving.

A year after meeting, they were married in Yellowknife by justice of the peace Tony Whitford.

On Saturday, as Father Rick Paulin officiated, the couple repeated their vows once more. This time they stood before friends and family in the Jean Marie River community hall, which was decorated with streamers and oodles of balloons.

The key to their lasting relationship has been good communication, Lucy noted.

"We can talk to each other 'til we're blue in the face and we'll come out with something good," she explained.

Isadore concurred.

"We've had our ups and downs and disagreements, but we've managed to sit down and iron it out," he said. "We share life... we're just the best of friends."

Things have been even better since the couple began practising sobriety several years ago, according to Lucy.

"He's always supported me and I will always support him," she said. "There's no such thing as a perfect marriage unless you work at it."

Full house

They have two children together -- Paul and James -- and have raised Lucy's children from a previous relationship -- Stephanie and Boris.

Isadore said it seems like he and Lucy met only a few years ago, but now their little kids have all grown up.

Stephanie said Isadore and Lucy's love for their children has brought them even closer together.

"They understand each other," she said.

James added that his parents are spur-of-the-moment types who jump in their truck and drive off for adventure.

"They like to meet new people," he said.