My Best Valentine
My best valentine was given to me by my husband, Von, in 1991 after 48 years of marriage. Today I found it and was reminiscing. I also found all of his love letters written in 1943. We met Dec. 1942 and were married on September 4,1943. We had 57 wonderful years together before he passed away in 2000.
Von was a large man physically—6 ft. 3inches tall and 220 lbs.But he was a real “teddy bear.” He wasn’t afraid to show his emotions by crying and he was so tender-hearted he wouldn’t go deer hunting. But—he was all man! He wasn’t afraid to show his affection for me or my kids(even in public). He never fired but one person who worked for him and he agonized over that.
I have just finished reading his love letters and he avowed his love for me in each one. But here is my favorite 1991 valentine.It was written on Valentine Day and he read it before about 40 people at a Valentine party.
My Valentine
Proverbsl 18: 22 says:”He that findeth a good wife findeth a good thing.” When I see something I really want I try to get it.The first time I saw you I said,’that’s for me.’ I proposed on our first date. I think I proposed on every other date but you would never say yes.I finally bought a ring and put it on your finger and told you we were going to get married. I must have really been in love because I sold my 28 Chevy to buy that ring.
One week before we married I quit my job.I was always real smart and you had to loan me 30 dollars to get married. I never paid you back but I have tried to keep the interest paid.
When you were asked if you would marry me again you said, yes, but you wanted to change the part of the wedding vows concerning POORER!
You have been a good mother to our children and a wonderful companion to me. I just want you to know I do not regret the decision I made over 48 years go—to chase you til you caught me!
You were my valentine then, and you are my valentine now.
Precious Memories—how they linger!
