59 years

Dear Madelyn Kate,
Today we took a drive out to the country to Martin's Mill. That is where Daddy and I lived when we got married. It's a beautiful area. Fresh air. Green grass. Children playing outside. Friendly neighbors pumping gas at "the store". It's pretty far removed from red lights, Wal-Mart, and the feel of the fast pace of life in town. It always brings back lots of memories once we take the cut off in Ben Wheeler towards Martin's Mill. Daddy and I drove those roads SO many times before we were married. We have been wanting to take you out there to visit with friends, enjoy the scenery and just relax. Today we went for other reasons.

The husband of a sweet lady that your Daddy especially had grown close to both of them during our time in Martin's Mill passed away last week. On Friday Daddy performed the graveside service in Arlington (his first funeral to do). He said it was tough, even more than usual because Bert was his friend. Today was the memorial service at the church.

During the service, you and I stayed in the nursery and you played in the walker (which you scooted ALL around the room in and I may look in to getting you one).

I was thankful that I was able to hear the service from in there.

There was one thing that I kept hearing over and over throughout the service, "Bert loved...". It was such a testimony to the way he lived his life.

After the service, I went to give his sweet wife a hug and tell her that we love her. She gave me a kiss on the cheek and whispered in my ear that she hopes Daddy and I are blessed with 59 years like they were.

59 years.

Wow.

I am not sure what I would do if I lost your Daddy. He is my best friend. He completes my sentences. Knows everything about me and yet he loves me still.

I too hope for 59 years.

I am thankful for the two and a half married years so far.

I love you sweet girl. I love Daddy too. I look forward to the future with both of you...

Love,

Mommy