As the years went by—from newlyweds to raising children, through midlife careers, world travels, old age, and eventually Marilyn’s illness and death shortly after their 50th anniversary—the letters evolved alongside their lives. Their love deepened and matured. After her passing, Jim discovered the letters stored in a box, hidden for years on a shelf in her office. His family and friends were moved by their story and the messages contained in the letters. They encouraged Jim to share them with the world—and so, this book was born.