Both Nate’s parents and mine had taken up the charge to pull together a big wedding in just a few months. Nate’s mother called and invited me to come visit them when Nate returned from Army camp on July 25. I assured her I would.

We were confident God was leading us through each decision, and we knew everything would fall together on time. I hoped to move down to Champaign at the end of August to be near Nate as he went back to law school and was anxious to prepare a newlywed home for us in an apartment near the university. The fact that I didn’t have even one lead on a teaching job didn’t bother me. I was trusting that God would show us what to do.

July 9, 1969 – Dearest Meg. I wrote my folks about the rehearsal dinner and guest list. Please feel no hesitation in calling or writing mother. Don’t be reticent. She is very eager to know and be with her new daughter. Even visiting her overnight would be very nice and generous of you, if you want to make the 4 hour drive. You both could have a good girl talk.

July 9, 1969 – Dear Nate, my fabulous fiancé! You will never know how much all your letters mean to me. They have truly factored into the growth of our relationship. And now we have a written record of all of it! When I received your THREE letters today, I was alone in the apartment but found myself exclaiming aloud, “I love you! and “Oh, Nate!” I got really excited over the things you wrote. You’re an excellent writer, but on top of your words, the message they convey is even more wonderful! I always thank the Lord that He let us find each other.

July 9, 1969 – Dearest Meg. I get flashes of you in my mind like flashbacks in a movie – smiling, laughing. You’re on my mind constantly, and in a flash your beauty is even more striking and breathtaking. I appreciate you more every minute. In one month we can celebrate your birthday, then mine 10 days later. Just think – someday we’ll celebrate our babies’ birthdays! Cake and diaper-changing during the same party!

July 9, 1969 – Dear Nate. When you write that you are secure at last about my reciprocal love for you, this makes me heart rejoice! At last we are on an equal level of love and trust and candor with each other. I love you so much that sometimes I feel like bursting inside! I’m so thankful to the Lord for allowing me to experience this depth of love. By the way, I bought a new dress to wear to your friend’s wedding. It’s mint green brocade with tiny baby-blue accents. You’ll love it. And I love YOU!

July 10, 1969 – Dearest Meg. I need you, and you need me. Fulfilling each other’s needs is a complete 24-hour task requiring every thought, word, and deed. I love you so much! I hope I can always please you. I am glad we’re waiting until 29 November for sex. It will mean more that way, even in our spiritual and emotional senses.

July 11, 1969 – Dear Nate. You are kind and generous to remember my birthday and to do so with such enthusiasm! Wow! And when you commented about diapers and birthday cake at the same party, I about fell off my chair with that thrilling realization! You will make an excellent father, aware of the needs of others as you are, and will be especially good with your own wife and children. You’re responsible and stable, and I know I’m VERY lucky I get to marry you!

“Joyful are those who have the God of Israel as their helper, whose hope is in the Lord their God.” (Psalm 146:5)