February 16 2026

Happy 45th Anniversary, Annette!

Today, February 16th, marks what would have been our 45th anniversary, but it is also exactly 3½ years since your death. I have over this time written many of these letters to you marking your birthdays, the day of your death, our anniversaries, and posts that describe my journey through the pain and sorrow of losing you. I did this in part as a way to remember you and the beauty and love you gave to me, to release my grief, and to help move me toward whatever my future holds without you. Along the way I’ve experienced, as many do, a transformation. For one, I understand more than ever how valuable and vibrant life is, but also how ephemeral. It’s also caused me to examine the values that are most important to me and to focus on living true to these. While the sorrow always lingers, I am nonetheless enjoying life and, I hope, making a difference to others.

I still talk to you nearly every day, Annette, but I feel that in these letters, I am now more often repeating things I’ve already written, and am at a point where moving past these seems appropriate. I will continue to talk to you always, but those are private conversations.

I may still write about this journey from time to time, but am focusing on the gift of today and looking forward to experiencing the incredible adventures my future may bring for however many more days I am granted.

You will always be in my heart, Annette. Your love continues to enrich me and give me strength. I am so very grateful for you.

Love forever my dear best friend and soulmate! You will always be my compass.

David