How do I love thee?

How do I love thee? Let me count the ways... --Elizabeth Barrett Browning

I love that you had a goal of being married in the temple. You have always lived the gospel of Jesus Christ. I was inactive when we met and not eligible for a temple wedding. It was disappointing that I didn't fulfill your dream when we were first married. You were my missionary. You taught me about Jesus Christ. So that we could be sealed in the temple one year later. Our temple marriage has been one of my treasured blessings.

I love your beauty. I remember the first time we met. We went on a blind date. I remember being at your home on Odgen Ave. I can remember standing by the fireplace and thinking how beautiful you were with your olive skin, big blue eyes and black hair. After 62 years together, I still think you are beautiful. You were my first and only girlfriend. It was the first time I was eager to be with someone other than boys. I felt like you were a step above me. I felt like I was marrying up. Better than I deserved.

I love to spend time with you. I truly enjoy being with you. You are my best friend. I love your companionship and company. Even today, I am so grateful for the love that you show me each day as you care for me. I wouldn't be able to live alone in my handicapped condition, but because of your care and love we can still be in our home together. I have always loved to spend time with you and feel the joy of eternal marriage.

I love that you are a mother. You have been a wonderful mother to our eight children. Your skill as a mother is your greatest achievement in life. You have amazing listening skills. You pick up on things constantly that I didn't even hear. I give you the credit for the success of our family.

I cherish the life we have had together and look forward to an eternity with you. Our life has been a most exciting journey. We have learned and grown together. It has been the best of times. And I wouldn't have wanted to spend it with anyone but you. I know where we are going and it is exciting to contemplate the eternal joy and happiness we will have in the next stage of our life together. We are on track to be a god and goddess together.

I love YOU!

--Claude