A Love Letter To Shandra

To celebrate Valentine’s Day, we asked Patch readers to write a love letter to that special someone and let us deliver it. This is Rod Reiswig’s love story about his wife, Shandra:

“Hello Patch! This is a bit ironic, and possibly even a little cheesy but here goes. My name is Rod. My wife Shandra and I have been married almost 18 years now. We are both 39 and have two girls, Danica, 11 and Brinley, 9. Yes, we married young, and very few thought we could ever last as we were both 'free spirits,' but here we are! Currently, having relieved Mom, I sit here in a hospital room with our daughter Brinley, who was extremely ill and now on the mend. That's when I noticed your email asking for a romantic love letter to share.

It's ironic because a few moments ago, I was reflecting on my wife, Shandra, and her unwavering dedication to our children -- especially in times like these when they're not feeling well. It is these qualities every man looks for in a woman. Nurturing, empathetic and caring, to name a few. It was the first night here at Miller Children's in Long Beach when it really hit me. I was fully prepared to spend the night with our daughters, and I have medical experience, but then Shandra looked at me and said, 'I have to be with her.' Those few words may not seem like much, but the look in her eyes from a husband's perspective spoke it a thousand times truer.

Shandra and I have been through an amazing journey together. A journey full of highs, lows, career changes, relocation, sickness, adventure and much more. Through it all, we've stood by each other's side, a true testament to our vows 17 years ago. Without you there is no us honey. Happy Valentine’s Day 2018. May this next year be filled with date nights, vacations and good times. I love you.”

--Rod Reiswig

See all Patch love letters here.

For next month's Love In A Small Town feature, we want to know: What place in town will always be a reminder of love for you? Whether it's the park where you had your first kiss or the restaurant where he proposed, email your story to locallove@patch.com for the chance to be featured. Get more details here.