You have been a near-perfect companion for 51 years. We mostly share the same interests, values, and world views. We don’t argue with or criticize one another. Decision-making between us is usually easy. We have a good time together. You have trusted my judgement (and I yours). I bought a house in Boulder Creek that you had never seen and I also designed one that you accepted whole-heartedly—even when the design included no inside staircase (thank God the planning department nixed the idea). You have done an outstanding job of managing our finances, doggedly setting aside savings every month, even when things were tight. The result has been a comfortable retirement. You also manage all our other business matters: insurance, bills, home repair, and much more. I am grateful. You took on four young kids and stuck with us through thick and thin, never trying to avoid tough parenthood decisions—always hanging in there. You don’t take the easy way out, as I am inclined to do. What’s more, you’ve been a devoted and dependable father and grandfather for all these years, showing by example what integrity, thoughtfulness, and steadfastness looks like. I’m glad I have you.

Much love,

Your wife