how long?

Fifty three years.

The groom was tall and exceedingly skinny. The bride glowed as brides are should.

The whole thing was an exercise in irrational exuberance. Some, no doubt, while chuckling about the “cute bride” also wrote the couple off: “They won’t make it.”

They had little but their love for each other.

Now, 53 years later, it is pretty much the same thing! “All” they have is their love, but it has been a glowing success.

It was good to see the President romance his wife. Grand leaders don’t do that very often, it seems. I liked the images of two people madly in love.

We will celebrate together quietly. I have an Alzheimer’s support group this afternoon, a reminder that even strong good marriages have real problems. After that I will take her to Olive Garden for dinner.

It will be a simple meal of Minestrone soup, salad and bread. With the tip, the total will be the same as we paid for a month’s rent for our tiny apartment when they were first married.

I tease her sometimes. “If you wanted a husband who adores you, you got your wish.”

I love you Miriam. You have been a wonderful wife.