The Ballestero Blog

To My Loving Bride Of 45 Years.

In Memory Our First Valentine’s Day

The year was 1965. We were almost engaged. I was already head-over-heals in love with you. I just couldn’t let the most romantic day of the year go by without making an all out effort to see you.

The Youth Revival in Lansing, Michigan I’d preached at your Grandfather Hebert Starr’s church had just closed. I was back home in South Bend, Indiana for a few days with my parents. My car was in the shop getting some repairs done, and I was desperate for transportation. I’d asked my old friend Bobby Edgin if he would take me to see you so I could give you my Valentine’s Day gifts. He and his wife drove me the 100 miles to Albion, Michigan after he got off work. We got to your church a little bit late.

The song service was already in progress. We surprised you by coming. You looked so beautiful sitting up there in the orchestra playing your saxophone. You were dressed in a fashionable A-line “Poodle” skirt and beautiful blouse. Your white bobby socks completed your outfit. I couldn’t take my eyes off of you.

You were a Senior in High School. I found out later you were still in your school clothes. Your hair was beautifully curled as usual, and hung down over your shoulders and back. I had never watched you from out in the audience before.

When I’d preached the Youth Revival for your Dad three months earlier, I’d sat with him on the platform behind you and the orchestra. You looked beautiful to me from every angle.

As soon as the orchestra was dismissed that night, you disappeared for a while. In a few minutes you returned to the service having changed out of your school clothes into something more dressy, with nylons and heels as well. Then you came and sat by me. I’d never sat by a girl in church before. I have absolutely no memory of the sermon. You were the only thing on my mind!

I couldn’t stay long after service because it was a 2-hour drive back home and my ride disliked staying up late.

Not long after the service was over, I gave you my card and candy. I remember giving you something else but I have forgotten. Whatever it was, it was just part of the excuse to see you, tell you I loved you, and hope there might be an opportunity for another hug and a few kisses. There certainly was!

After all these years, my love, I’m still coming back for more of those wonderful kisses. They seem to get sweeter with time.

I love you Marcia June Starr Ballestero.

I Really Love You, And I Always Will!

Happy Valentine’s Day My Love, for the 46^th time, from the man who’s still thrilled to be your husband.

XOXOXO