Peru, Illinois lovely homes and neighborhoods - Walk With Me as my good wife and I see her childhood neighborhood.

Laura Jean Unzicker Martin is 55!!! - "My Sweet, Sweet Dove" - a poem from Steve

Laurie Martin

My Sweet, Sweet Dove

Born June 28, 1959

It was a glorious time, that special day in 'Fifty Nine,

When Laura Jean came forth; no cry or whine.

Lorraine and Otto were an especially happy pair

Joining big sisters Linda and Judy  - already there!

Peru, Illinois was His chosen town for thee,

A quiet place in the Midwest you see.

This little Princess, now "Laurie" she heard

As you grew and sang like a pretty bird!

The days passed by as you learned a lot

In schools of the town, from teachers taught.

Summer time at the pool and May's Drug too

Rounded out those years through your high school.

Just past eighteen, down the aisle to meet,

Your charmer named Steve - swept off your feet.

Josh came first, then Ben and Hannah;

Christen was fourth, calling you Mama.

Around the country, to Michigan, the next seven,

Then on to Fort Lauderdale and 7-11. 

North Carolina came fast in 1994,

Now it's been 20. Shall we have some more?

In churches and ministries you have served them well,

Singing and giving - I surely do tell.

And now its 55, a number of more grace;

The Good Lord has given you the double place.

Blessings on ye head, my bride, my good wife!

Happy Birthday to you! I think I'll say it twice!

Happy Birthday to you! For it's a day of love,

For Laurie is special, my sweet sweet dove!

From your husband of almost 37,

Love you, my love,

Steve