My Beloved Liz,

I can't believe we have been together since you were 18 years old! Now turning 62, you are as beautiful and vibrant as ever. Honestly, I don't know how I got you to be my bride nearly 44 years ago. You must have been drinking and didn't recognize me!

Frankly, I cannot imagine my life without you. You are everything I ever wanted in a soulmate – in a lovemate – in a wife. You are everything I could have ever wanted and hoped for in my life's companion. I had high expectations for the girl of my dreams and you have exceeded them on all counts!

Growing up in small town Missouri, I used to stare at the stars at night and dream of my future life. I never imagined I would spend it with someone like you! You are the fulfillment of my dreams. I cannot imagine life without you!

Too often in life, people who think they are in love are not truly in love. It took me about one minute to realize those many years ago that I was in love with you. In fact, on our first date, my heart fluttered during our first dance.

Sitting on the park benches outside your college dormitory, night after night I watched you walk by with your hair a-flopping! I said to myself many times that I was going to "marry that girl!" When you turned me down for what could have been our first date, I was crushed. My confidence was shattered. But for some reason, I reached deep down inside myself and worked up the courage to ask you again. You said yes! And as they say, the rest is history. Small town Missouri boy meets Southern California girl and love reigns supreme!

You have made my life complete. And together we created a beautiful daughter and she has given us marvelous grandchildren. What could be a better legacy for our life together than that? I wouldn't change a thing. I love you more than life itself.

Love Forever, Charley
Valentine’s Day 2010

By Dr. Charles D. Schmitz and Dr. Elizabeth A. Schmitz

**For [Link Removed] .