XVI

Hey kids,
Daddy here. Mom and I began dating in January of 1997. A year later, we went to Hawaii. Before we left, I asked Grandpa if Mom could come with us on our family vacation. He asked me why and I said, "I'm thinking of asking her to marry me." Grandpa said nothing. So, I had to ask, "What do you think about that?" He smiled and said, "I think that would be a good idea." He always loved her so much. I asked Grammie and Papa's permission for her hand before we left and they said yes. Mom and I  went out to dinner at a little seaside restaurant across the street from our condo. Before dinner, Mom and I took a little walk on the beach. I got down on one knee, and asked her to marry me. She started crying. I said, "Is that a yes?" She said, "Of course!" and we hugged. A little boy, about 11 or 12 years old and his friends were standing close by. He shouted, "Congratulations dude!" and waved at us. I said to Mom, "We're going to remember that kid for the rest of our lives." A year later, we got married at Joseph's Church. We had to go through these marriage classes before the wedding because I wasn't Catholic at the time. I thought they were dumb at the time, but it really helped Mom and I to work together as a team and to talk about everything to each other.

Today Mom and I celebrate 16 years of marriage. I told Mom I could not afford to get her a new ring, but I did shave my beard up nice and neat, like she likes.  It's the middle of the week, so we couldn't do anything crazy but we did go to Nello's (local Italian restaurant). We had never been there but heard from Gramie and Papa that it was good. We both decided to get veal and it was awesome. After 16 years of marriage, Mom is still my favorite person on the planet. I sincerely hope that you guys will someday find a person who compliments you as much as Mom does me.  Marriage is a sacrament from God and I feel truly blessed to share my life with Mom.  I love you guys,

Daddy