The idea for this book was born from the practice of Karen and me exchanging greetings at special occasions throughout our happy courting and married life together. Upon Karen's sudden death on July 19, 2011, I questioned myself, "Why should I stop now?" The answer has resulted in one-page, true short stories of our experiences together, each anchored to seventy-two calendar dates of happy, special occasions.

Within the short stories, you will find that the later stories are more about our life together than my grief. Of the words written within, some are of sadness missing Karen being gone, a few are of selfishness wishing Karen was still here with me, but most are of affection expressing my appreciation and love in return for what Karen meant to me. All the words written within have the same origin and intent. I loved Karen completely, meaning I never found fault in Karen.

I wish for readers to find, realize, practice, and share mutual love equivalent to, or better than, the love described and experienced within. I also wish for readers to seek and apply opportunities that frequently arise, or evolve, from a comfortable, trusting, and cooperative environment, as described within, to enhance a loving, lifelong, married relationship as mutual partners.