I grew up in Quincy, Illinois. A relatively small town on the Mississippi River. I was raised as one of five kids in my family and have a twin sister. I am fond of my childhood and appreciates the love and affection my parents gave me. I left Quincy when I as 18 to join the Marine Corps. While stationed at Camp Pendelton, CA, I met my lovely wife Lynda and have been married to her for 22 years now. Lynda has been there for me and has given me the strength and guidance necessary to get to where I am today. She has blessed me with two boys, Justin and Luke and I am proud of both of them. I started writing poetry to Lynda early on in our marriage. I spent several months away working in another state while she was at home raising the boys. Writing poems was my way letting her know how much I love her. Though most of the poems I wrote her cannot be found, it inspired me to write other poems for various occasions. I hope you enjoy the collection of poems.