Isthmus Book of Love 2017 by Isthmus

2017

TO M MY WA S H B U S H

2017

Thank you once again for sharing your sweet words and charming pictures. For a romantic slideshow featuring all of these and plenty more — be sure to visit

isthmus.com/book-of-love-2017 I L L U S T R AT I O N S B Y T O M M Y WA S H B U S H

To my Hot Momma T: Thank you for finding me. Thank you for filling my heart with more love than I ever knew it could hold. Thank you for your boundless optimism, prodigious passion and abiding commitment to self development. You fascinate and inspire me and I adore you. J

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Love is in the quiet winter runs my husband and I take side by side, through our Marquette neighborhood. Whether it is the crunch of snow, or stillness of the lake, this place wrapped us up in comfort after the heartbreak of loss, just as it filled us with energy on a New Year’s Day run.

Bacon, Bean & Nut: I am so grateful to call you my family! You are delicious, nutritious, and oh-so yummy to me. I want to eat you all up! I love you more than words can say. Your Bug-mama Dearest Tom, Being your partner in this crazy thing called life is wonderful! I love you with all my heart. Baa, Ruthie Spring seedlings nurtured To blooming wildflowers waves, A meteor’s wish

KML1-so many yrs we shared that moniker Kimberly Baker.U asked me how I could love u when u were so sick, I loved your soul your being your energy your beautiful mind.U completed me, we belong together. I know u want me to look 4 the joy in life, I’ll try. Its hard right now.I miss u & love u dearly Hey Soulie, you are THE Kitty for me. Love, Foxy. Tom Johnson, first you were young, then you were middle-aged. Now? You’re wonderful. Quin & Logan, I will give you all the smootches. SMOOTCH SMOOTCH SMOOTCH SMOOTCH SMOOTCH SMOOTCH SMOOTCH SMOOTCH SMOOTCH SMOOTCH SMOOTCH SMOOTCH SMOOTCH SMOOTCH SMOOTCH SMOOTCH SMOOTCH SMOOTCH SMOOTCH SMOOTCH SMOOTCH SMOOTCH SMOOTCH SMOOTCH SMOOTCH SMOOTCH SMOOTCH SMOOTCH SMOOTCH SMOOTCH SMOOTCH SS u are my sunshine, my playmate, my special friend, my Olive and I love u. OMM

Megan, The year since our reunion has gone by so quickly. After that phenomenal time, I was certain of a happy future with you. It turned out even more perfect than I could have imagined. I cherish each moment that we spend together and the intensity of my love for you only grows stronger. ~ Scott Patricia ~ 14 years of enduring commitment, working as we do, as a team, to achieve our destiny. Love, Tom Facebook Nature’s Beauty. I love all the fun we have together! From my heart thank you for being a very happy part of my life since we “reconnected.” Everything we do together is amazing. Hope you’ll be my Valentine. :)” Gideon / Peanut- I love getting to know you more as you grow. You are a kind and wonderful young man. KSK To my Beautiful wife on our first valentine’s day together as husband and wife. I love you Amanda. Love your caring husband Ian. Caleb/ Pumpkin- I’ll still love you (and drop by if you move four hours away. Mama

T-fats, 2 years of some of the best adventures ever! Can’t wait to see what the next year brings. There is no way to thank you for all you’ve done for me! -K2

Sending Happy Valentine’s Day wishes from Wisconsin. Love you Grandma and Grandpa! Love, Hanalei, Marcella and Tuucha

Spike, Spooning since 2009 & you are still my morning happiness & my evening bliss. Grateful for 2nd time around at love! Your Poppins

SPC- Five years! Really you’ve been my best friend for ten years. I can’t imagine my life w/o you, and now, w/o Rosalind. We made a beautiful child and I love watching you with her. I love you so much, even though in my current sleep deprived-state I’m not always showing it. More snuggles soon! MEC

Sweet Rotten! You are the love of my life! Thank you for being the best mother, wife, lover, and friend a guy could ever ask for! Daddy!

Social Progressives of Dane Land: Please look at yourselves in the mirror today and self confess whether or not you’ve shown all of your friends, family and neighbors all of the love you are capable of showing.

Apparently baked with LOVE is a thing... JO-All this adversity will test the metal of our relationship...we will come shining brightly thru at the other end of all of this crap!! Just put on a hat when it comes raining down! Always, SOO Dearest Alissa, in a year of surprises you are most constant, my love, my life. Being with you, and raising a family together has been my joy. I love you always. Happy Valentine’s Day George, Oswald & Penny. We love you SO much! Love, Uncle Colin, Auntie Nicole, Hanalei, Marcella and Tuucha Grandma and Grandpa Morris- We love you! Happy Valentine’s Day. Love, Hanalei, Marcella, George, Tuucha, Oswald and Penny. Happy Valentine’s Day Dada! We love you SO much. Thank you for being silly with us, for taking us on fun vacations & for helping us learn. Love, Hanalei, Marcella and Tuucha Happy Valentine’s Day Miss LuAnne! Thank you for being such a wonderful teacher. Your friend, Marcella

Happy Valentine’s Day Colin. I love you very much. Thank you for the beautiful family that we have. We are lucky to spend our lives with someone with a passionate for life, adventure, learning and sports. Love, Nicole

Rosina Bumpier. 60.000 tenedores en un cajon. Gracias por su amor y compasion. Monsieur Boeuf la Tete M, This isn’t it by any means: our love (& no doubt fur) will follow you to MT and beyond. You are our favorite, and we are so proud of you! Mom, Bear, and Z x 2 A, Boo boop-de-boop, scoot-a-loot, toot (that horn of yours), and dance me to the moon. So much love, so little time. J Yoshi, I attack you while you’re trying to sleep. You eat my food. We destroy sofas together. Be my valentine? Your sis, Jojo I, The job, the truck…the trappings of adulthood don’t fool us: we know that deep down, you’d like nothing better than a lazy day of reading with cats, & we love you for this! J, Bear, and Zx2 To my favorite blue-eyed artist, the girls and I love you to the moon and back! Happy Valentine’s Day! Forever yours, Sunshine. Off you go into the wild blue soon ... GAJQ .. I love you so much and know you will help make the world a better place. Don’t stop. Love ... Dad Cecelia Sophia ... What a wonderful person you are. I love your smarts, your sassiness (most of the time I love that), your friends, and everything about you. Keep dancing, keep playing, keep being you .... I love you very much .. Dad wish you were beer

To Roylene the one I love, my better half, the one who makes me smile and laugh. You give your heart to everyone. Caring, Loving and compassionate beyond compare. Happy Valentine’s Day Mon Cher. All my love. Greg Hot Pretzel- you are the Cooper to my Diane, the Log to my Lady, the bad haircut to my Henry, the California to my Peggy. You’ve made this past year infinitely more fun and loving than I expected. I like you, I love you, and I Barb you. -Sweet Pickle Ahoy and Avast ye Sweet Wench Roylene So Fine... Won’t ye be Cap’n Greg’s Pyratical Valentine? What Say Ye? Mula, I could not have imagined after our first dance at Dane Dances in August, 2015, that things could be so special for both of us. I love all of you and look forward to our travels this year and the rest of our lives. The OA. Steve Sheski, You bring a smile to my face every day of the week, and I look forward to seeing you whenever I’m at Capital Fitness. I hope you stick around these parts for a long time because I would miss the silly banter and your infectious personality. Signed, Another guy named Steve We’ve been marching together a long time..... now with our offspring! Our love grows stronger as it is embodied in our progeny. We all can now work together for a better world! It’s so great having them all around us.....what blessings they are. And you are a great blessing to me, my beloved. PBS Thanks Dad for being my dance partner! Love, Sarah

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Happy Valentine’s Day Isla, Olivia, Mr. and Miss Miss. We love you & miss you! Love, Hanalei, Marcella and Tuucha

See, being buddies is a good thing. 16 years down and so many more to go. I love you more than the stars love the moon.

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CARRIE SACHSE...“Your love is like a river, peaceful and deep / your soul is like a secret, that i could never keep / when i look into your eyes, i know that it’s true / god must have spent a little more time on you” - Walt Whitman, I mean ‘N Sync My proudest accomplishment is still the relationship we’ve built together. Love you more now than I did then, Beow. Judy + Stu Dolnick - It has never been more clear to me how fortunate I was to grow up witnessing your love for one another. I will forever cherish our memories together, and I loff you both so much. Love, Rachel Sweet Pea, Happy Valentine’s Day and Happy Anniversary and happy “days between”! I love you, I love our new house, I love you AND our new house! Boo Tomosito! I want to wish you another Happy Valentine’s Day! The world is a better place because you are in it!! Love you! BrettMan LSTG - I love you all the way to Mars and back. You keep getting pretty every day! -Earl Happy Birthday to our Valentines Day baby Julia Tay. You have made this holiday very special. Love you. WJ I still love you, exactly.... DO

Happy Valentine’s Day to my Saucy Wench Roylene! Even as a Flounder my Love for her would Flourish for she is what feeds Me Soul… and Keeps Me Poor Heart Nourished. Yarrrrr One and Only, Cap’n Greg Dear Doctor Doom, Let’s get together and be naughty somewhere. Hopefully those goody two shoes won’t catch us and we can enjoy being bad together. Meow! Your sultry feline in crime. Cat Woman. #mycityMadison Thanks for the music! I LOVE YOU <3 TO ME from HD much love....and music!!! Dear Mom and Bella, Happy Valentine’s Day. I will miss you. Love, Julia Karen! 20 years and still going strong. Even when the world seems to fall into darkness, you manage to light a path to happiness. Lucy, John, Nigel and I adore you. In every scenario, love always wins. -Kelly Dear Toboggan Man, We populated our henhouse with five roosters, our Being graduated from nursery school, and now I am not sure if she or I have the most fun in kindergarten or in graduate school. Thanks for a great year! Let’s cut down that branch and not damage our mirrors anymore! Love, Jewel

To Shelly from Suzy I HEART my person! Happy Valentine’s Day, Dad! I love you, Dad! Thanks for carrying me upstairs and at the march and thanks for carrying me on your shoulders. Thanks for playing guitar songs, the DaddyDaughter Dance, trips to the grocery stores, and happy meals. Love, Being Dear Gracie Being, You are an amazing daughter. Your heart is compassionate and kind, your actions are loving and sincere, and your mind is inquisitive, creative, and enthusiastic. We love you completely. You are our constant blessing. Love, Mom and Dad Dear Grandma and Bella, Thank you for Tuesdays and for building Felice with me on our snow day. Love, Grace Linda thank you for taking such good care of me and Charlie love Timothy and Charlie dog Three years ago you suggested that we should renew our vows on our 25th wedding aniversary. I pointed out that I meant it the first time. Not surprisingly, you got your way, on a sailboat, at sunset, off the coast of St. Maarten. I meant it then, too. I love you, sweetheart. First Congo Susie Q. Happy Valentine’s Day to you, dear friend. May you have many, many healthy and happy days ahead for you and your family.

Sweet Cheeks, Big Ol’ Dummy, My Belovèd Jewball, you are the kindest, warmest, most humble, generous, caring, loving, accepting, open, fun, doting, devoted, uplifting, hilarious, gregarious, and supportive partner I’ve ever had. May Peter forever drown in her glory. Xoxoxoxxx Dear Jim, 37 years. Rock Steady, baby! Ms T - Thank you for being such a kind, caring, and loving partner. Our wedding was but a single day, but the energy, joy, and love that surrounded us in that moment shows me that we can tackle all of life’s adventures yet to come. I love you madly XOXOXO - J Happy Valentine’s Day to the one and only First Congo Fannie. Your positive spirit is valued and appreciated by so many. You are one classy young woman!!

Gaston, Gaston, how I miss singing to you, my Valentine friend. You are missed at the health club, but know that you have moved on to greener pastures. Take good care, and just know how much you are appreciated.

Kevin, I love you more than I can express and am so happy that you’re all mine. Meeeeowwww. Love, Angela

For my rockstar toad prince Nic - You continue to inspire and comfort me. Thank you for your devotion, kindness, sense of humor, and your passion to figure out life together. I love the man you are and the man you’ll be. Never stop hopping or squeaking. - your leggy frog princess Kj

First Congo Mary Ellen, First Congo MEG, the Countess of the Congo. Any way you slice it, Happy Valentine’s day to a wonderful friend and fellow congregant.

Hottie Dog Park Guy: We sold 2 houses and bought our dream home and have lived in a 400 sq ft rental house with three dogs and a baby. Lets make another human so I can be done popping out kids. I love you so much and cant imagine going through this crazy ride with anyone else.

The Queens of Coffee, long live Crema Cafe! Happy Valentine’s Day to our favorites Thelma and Louise, who always treat us like family. They deserve a huge raise in salary, and their paid vacation time tripled!

Cherie, Cherie, Cherie, my one and only Mon Cherie. Happy Valentine’s Day. I appreciate you more than you know. Nudge nudge wink wink.

2 hubby MM, you’ve been in the closed practicing blowing different horns & even play triangles! Ting a ling old man! Here’s to all the drum majors and majorettes who smile and march on down the street, high stepping it in our go-go boots while our partners lied to us and joined swing bands.

Matt, Matt, Matthew of Cap Fitness. Always a broad smile, lending a helping hand, sharing a laugh and being a trainer par excellent. Michelle, my belle, these are words that go together well, my Michelle. Happy Valentine’s Day, my friend.

Morning coffee, numerous visits, homemade soups and desserts, phone calls and texts, neighborhood full of interesting characters, never a dull moment for man patch and butt scratch, you are the love of my life. Happy Valentine’s Day. Lala Land is where we are. It’s here and nownot there and far. We look to what we’ve done and made, to how we’ve walked life’s big parade. It’s not those things undone that matter. It’s who we are now, not to flatter--sitting pretty, riding high--S and S, with family nigh.

Mr. Capital Fitness Trainer of the Year Pete. Always a pleasure to visit with you at the club. Your clients are so very fortunate to have you as their support trainer. You also deserve Father of the Year award! Happy Valentine’s Day.

My chocolate champion, 11 years strong I wouldn’t trade you for the world you have my heart and I hope this is the year I give you the little boy we both want Love you more, mama

Love is not written on Paper, for Paper can be erased. Nor it is etched on Stone, for Stone can be broken. But it is inscribed on a Heart and there it shall remain forever. Rumi Dear K- 12 years of marriage and this last one was crazy… a new baby, a layoff, a new job. There’s no one else I’d rather navigate this crazy world with than you. Let’s hope year 13 is smooth and easy. ~Love S

I’ll keep the home fires burning, I need to go pay the water bill, I need to see a man about a horse, and many more wonderful times we’ve shared in the First Congo church office. Why, the church lady never had it so good, did she? Happy Valentine’s Day to a wonderful friend! Once at Glendale, but no more, can’t come knocking on your classroom door, with snacks or treats to share. After all, B’s the best teacher this side of town; winter, spring, summer, fall.

Nana bear soon you will be the big 1 6 and I can’t believe the beautiful intelligent and sweet young woman you have become you mean the world to me and I can’t imagine my life without you. I love you T Peanut butter thanks for being a wonderful friend to me I appreciate your loyalty and the bond we share love u always, jelly Hello Glenda Splenda, how are you today? You are such a loving friend of mine, what more can I say? Oh Glenda Splenda, we have shared so much over these years of plenty. I am so blessed to have you in my life. Mon Cherie, Mon Cherie, Mon Cherie. How sweet thou art and how much you are appreciated and loved.

Rrrrrrrrrrrrhonda and Eric, Eric and Rrrrrrrrrrrrrhonda! I am so blessed to have you both in my life. Think of the many memories we share, the many I Love Lucy episodes we’ve experienced, and many more C and E events in the days ahead. You are family to me, and for this, I am so blessed. Richland Center Mama Lorraine Happy Valentine’s Day to you, the famous Mama Lorraine. Thank you for being such a wonderful hostess with the mostess, serving lucious meals and making all guests feel so very welcome. Stevo Happy Valentine’s Day to you. Capital Fitness should feel so fortunate to have acquired your services. Your front desk smile and genuine concern for others is awesome. Thanks so much for all that you do for us. Why? Because of concern, because of respect. Because of fun. And mostly because of love. That’s why. For my G’s: My love for you keeps growing, one of the ways I show you this is by looking deeply into your eyes - while I take issue with some of your friends, it thrills me to no end that you let me have slumber parties again -D Kristin, I’m glad we’re married, duh! Though, it was fun living in sin - ha ha, get it?! iloveyousomuch WJ I still love you, exactly.... DO

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Happy Valentine’s Day to the Queen of Capital Fitness, Mon Cherie. You are loved and appreciated by many club members and staff, but especially me! Thank you for always extending to me a warm welcome at the club, and for your loyal friendship of many years.

Happy Valentine’s Day to Madison’s one and only Sherminator. You are the King of Crema Coffee and First Congo Church. What a great friend to one and all.

Mom and Dad, we’re over the tutus and frills bring on the Daisy Dukes and crop tops Love, Daphne and Velma Wrigley, I’m still kind of uncomfortable around you - don’t take it personally - I’m just really sensitive Love, Basie They call me Birdie, even though, clearly, I am a cat -- oh well, I can live with that, especially since I got so many Christmas gifts Lisa, sing along with Stevie: “You are the sunshine of my life, That’s why I’ll always be around, You are the apple of my eye, Forever you’ll stay in my heart.” I love you. -Tom

Cheese, you are forever my perfect pair! Love, Beer Who’s one of our favorite Cap Fitness front desk personnel, tall and strong but as graceful as a gazelle leaping over the plains, friendly and cordial, and committed to task and order? Why, it’s Alex! Thanks so much, Alex, for all you do for us.

Lily, after 34 years it appears you actually are my type. I stand corrected. Love, Steve

USPS Jen We love your homemade cookies and treats. Yummy in our tummy. Happy Valentine’s Day from all of your coworkers and friends.

For the Unholy Rollers, I’ll always be grateful for this team to have chosen me to join the Evil family! You’re the best of everything, my friends, my role models, my teammates. Tacos, tacos, kill kill kill!

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Madison- it was truly love at first site and our memories are endless. Now I must leave because my first love needs me and she has loved me before my first breath. My love for you will never change, there will always be a place for you in my heart. Goodbye Madison, I’ll love you forever. -Janell

FREYA - What a beautiful surprise you continue to be! I am so proud to be walking by your side through this changing life journey we are on. Let us continue to grow in a myriad of directions - loving and laughing most of all! I love you, T.

For my husband (Nanners) and my son (Mas Gusto), life is one hell of a ride. Much like the ‘dog in convertible’ card I’ve been given twice. HA! So much love for you! <3, Your Nanners / Mama Bear

Well, we’ve made made it to another Valentine’s Day, my Sweet William, and I’m so glad. You make every day in my life brighter and I am so looking forward to sharing our future together. Love Forever, A

For the Dairyland Dolls, my ‘summer camp’ friends ;D - this team has given me some of the most exhilarating moments of my life & made me believe I could do roller derby magic on that track (as you all do yourselves!) <3 moo moo moo! Thanks for being my bestfriend Chippers! I love you & I can’t wait too see what the future holds! Renée: Your smile is the first and last thing I want to see, today, tomorrow, and on until my last day. And on. And on. Ever on. Beeks

Sant Sant Two is better than one here at First Congo. Happy Valentine’s Day to John and Carol The Road Home Dane County loves our amazing volunteers! Our dedicated volunteers are the heart of The Road Home! We have volunteer opportunities every night of the year. www.trhome.org or find us on Facebook BraverySeeker, Thank you for sharing your sweetness with me. FitLeo444 DC - Another wonderful year of travel, cozy nights watching Netflix while sipping wine, amazing dinners and a lot of love. Here’s looking forward to our next adventures in the coming year! I love you! BB. Dear Honey Bear, Thank you for always being my Superman, on all levels. Always yours, Honey Bunny Jen - This girl I really really dig - let’s see how deep we can go - Travis

OneA, Loved you last century, love you this one, your 1A in my book of love. Thanks for sharing the last 19+ years with me. Bright Eyes. Only two weeks it took to fall, or two years was it? It seems like so much longer we’ve felt this way. You have made me cherish every mistake, wrong choice, and bad date we made while apart. Without them, we would never have become what is now perfect for both our hearts. Beijing: As we continue to journey through our life’s paths, I am grateful for your friendship and loving support! And as I write this, the sun is shining! Bzzz..Love, Honeybee Hey, Boo! You are the most supportive person! I love our life together. Thanks so much for being there. Much love, Sweet Pea! “You do not know how heavy a heart it is That hangs about my neck -- a clumsy stone Cut with a birth, a death, a bridal day. Each time I love, I find it still my own, Who take it, now to that lad, now to this, Seeking to give the wretched thing away. “ --Dorothy Parker My sweet Peaches, I love more today than yesterday but not as much as tomorrow. We have had our ups and downs but we continue to be great partners in love. Looking forward to our upcoming 14th anniversary. Love you, Tamacita Happy 77th Birthday Mom on February 13! You are going to be “7 and 7”, but you must be drinking from the “fountain of youth”! Thanks for all you do! You are our bright and shinning “star” helping to guide us on life’s journey. I love you to the moon and back! Debbie RAC – Happy 8th Anniversary on 2-7-17! Baby, we’ve got history! Time is such a precious commodity and we’ve been fortunate enough to have known one another coming up on ten years 5/1/2017! It truly was a “May day” for both of us May 1st of 2007. Love, DZC

Thanks to you, the Man of Joy on Joylynne, who is such a great friend and neighbor. The trips to Campbellsport, Hankersons and Schmitty’s are so enjoyable with your company. Thanks for always watching out for me, and keeping an eye on things in the neighborhood. Especially Midas. Speaking of days, not a day goes by when I don’t ask myself “what did I do to deserve you?” You really float my boat and we’ll be getting 2 boats to enjoy at our beautiful Lake Monona home! Here’s wishing you a happy retirement from Merck on June 1st, 2017! Permission to come aboard Captain! Midas, Midas, he’s our man; cruising the hood as slow as he can. Late at night, on each street, muffler’s so loud, one just can’t sleep!

Up on the crest, enjoying the view, whom do we love, but the both of you? Happy Valentine’s Day to Doug and Lyn, true blue friends forever end of time. Brett, Brett, Brett. Once at Pedros, now long gone to the suburbs. How you are missed, and how so many would love to hug you forever; and run their hands south of your border! Happy Valentine’s Day, you hunky hunk. To Sarbacker’s Party of 5 and the Will’s Party of 3 soon to be Will’s Party of 4 come August 10th! I am so proud of all of you with your giving 110% to your careers, your families and to your communities. Keep your feet on the ground and keep reaching for the stars! I love you so much! Mom/Deb Suzie, I Love You Today.

Rattie Pie, oh my sweet Rat Pie, how much we have shared in years past? Up to Door, coffee gatherings, dinners out, porch sitting, family events, birthdays, graduations, weddings and funerals. Long live our friendship, Rattie Pie. Happy Valentine’s Day. To my Princesses Payton, Braelyn, Reagan, Brooklyn and peanut! We made terrific memories on our Disneyworld trip! I believe Disneyworld is the second happiest place on earth, the first happiest place is where ever I am with all of you! Life isn’t good, it’s GREAT! Love, Grandma Deb

Dad, you are a “bright shooting star lighting up a night sky” and always finding the “silver-lining” in everything. Thanks for being a superstar Dad, Grandpa and Great Grandpa! Love you more than words can say! Debbie

Kari, I’ve got a girl crush on you! Loving friends, Deb

Still!?! The nose kisses are getting out of hand. Good thing I love you so much, Weirdo.

Linda and Rhonda, Rhonda and Linda, going on a run, looking for fun, on Madison’s good ‘ol east side. Happy Valentine’s Day to you wild women!

Happy Valentine’s day to my shmoopie cuddle bunny snuggle wuggle Shnooky shnooks. I love you.

There’s no one I’d rather spin records and drink an Old Fashioned with than you. I’ll even let you win at cribbage. Love you, E. SC, it’s been 30 years already. I love you always! -VM John, You have my answer and you have it to my last breath. Yes, yes, yes Jordan, you’ve made life so much better and I’m so proud to call you my future husband. I love you and I’m so excited to keep loving you for years to come! Love, boo boo Crow Girl: The bear still loves you. Artio. SBK: Let’s Keep Marching Fourth. Me Peanut, I love you from the tips of you eye lashes to the cheese between your toes.

Love is the bridge between you and everything. ~ Rumi Jordan! You’re my very best friend. You fill my life with sunshine and every time I see you (still) my heart goes ( ! ). Thanks for always putting up with my laundry piles, picking up Wisco’s vomit, and always watching F.R.I.E.N.D.S reruns with me. You’re the love of my life. Always, Your Honeybee Peanut, I love you no matter what. Peanut, You are my precious daughter. Sheila Z, Here’s wishing you the BEST RETIREMENT EVER! This is a big written “Thank you” for your kindness and generosity! It has been a great pleasure working with you! The next Chapter of your book of Life has just begun! Loving friends, Deb & Kari

2016

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Happy Birthday Lillian! 2-8-17 - Wishing you the BEST BIRTHDAY EVER!! This is a terrific year for you 2017 – many great things will happen to you and you deserve all of them! You’ve worked hard and it is time to reap the benefits my dear friend! Love, Deb

Show Me The Love We have lot’s for you ✿ Chocolate in many forms ✿ Comfort food to nourish the soul

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Oh, My Konnie with a K! You know I’ve loved you every day. Altho you’re making such a fuss, And thinking not that much of us, Please hear what my heart does say!

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ISTHMUS.COM THE ISTHMUS BOOK OF LOVE 2017

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Mom Drickenski and dear Katie Mae; Happy Valentine’s Day in honor of family and friendship. Long live Lake Lenwood events from snooping in the back pantry to sipping coffee at the kitchen table, and eating naughties. Ivy Manor Queen! Happy Valentine’s Day to my dear mom, 101.5 years of age, still doing remarkably well and a role model for our family. Thanks for being the best mom forever end of time. Love you so much!

11/30/06 4:49:00 PM

Madison to Onalaska, Linda’s Bakery, Dinner in the Dells, phone chats and texts, laughter and love, Perkins and Hoo Hot, 102.5 and 91.1 FM on your dial, God’s love keeps us together forever. Happy Valentine’s Day to Al and SMA. moooooooooo A rip in the butt pocket of your jeans is such a sight for sore eyes. Happy Valentine’s Day to an excellent teacher, wonderful father and good friend. I appreciate you more than you know. Poppy, we can’t wait to meet you! With love, from your mom and dad. Norah, Has it really been only a month?! Wow, this is exciting! Will you be my valentine? Sincerely yours, Drew Jane TWW TWWW Dawes Pasquals Hamhock Wash your hands with soap & water in a bathroom Our kids The cabin Yosemite Montreal Naples Riesling Hit the Beach Treadmill Cubs Open windows Sleeping in Sidewalk shoveled Old movies New movies Popcorn Dessert you You YOU--I love you oodles forever! JaPOT Midas Man, thank you so much for fixing your muffler. We appreciate getting a good night’s sleep due to the restored peace and quiet. Thanks, Midas Man.

Biker Boy Ben. Always great to share laughter, conversation and commentaries at the health club. You rock! Eric, your sense of humor is wonderful; and I thoroughly enjoy your stories and commentaries whenever we have time to talk. Come on over for another dinner soon, my friend. I appreciate our friendship. Semaphore? Smoke signals? Telepathy? Magical invisible ink? We need something here... EMT Jake the Biker Man. You are such a dedicated worker, and have a great sense of humor as well. Thanks for being such a positive role model for all of us here. We need you and depend upon you, Mr. Man of Steel. Dear cabbage, you are my favorite Nutcracker forever and always. Love, Clara. Meaghan, each year I have spent with you has been the best of my life. How could we top things this year? By adding a new person to our lives to love! I love more than ever and I know that we’re still just getting started. Yours always, Steve. Happy Valentine’s Day Keelyn, I love you to the moon and back! Love, Mommy xoxo

Rosalind, This is the first Valentine I will ever give you as your dad. I love you so much little one! Welcome to my life and remember: we’re just getting started! Love, your dad. Happy Valentine’s Day, Aram! Our first Valentine’s together I sent you a bar of chocolate that melted in the mail on its way to India... glad we haven’t had to spend many V-days that far apart. I am so grateful for you and all that you add to my life! You will always be my sweetheart. Love, Sabrina Happy Valentine’s Day My Love, forever grateful for you!!! Love, Catie xoxo Hey, nym, looking forward to the next fifteen years. *smooch* --mkt Happy Valentine’s Day, Squidley Bop! Mona, you are the life of every party! When is the next one scheduled? Your doting fan club awaits...

Hey moosh. There’s no grout about it: we got this!!! xoxo I like your hat

To Sarah, Thanks for another great year filled with wild and hilarious adventures. From Kiimanjaro to Istanbul to Quetico to now A WEEK WITH YOUR ENTIRE CRAZY FAMILY (albeit, in paradise), you make everything fun, even moving baking cabinets. Just keep the coping chocolates coming! Love, Chris My Love Daylene. I has been almost 9 years since you passed. My love for you is still strong. there is not a day that goes by that you are not in my thoughts. I miss you more than I can say. I will always love you! I love our family! Happy Valentine’s Day to my Big Sweetie and my Little Man. Love, the Wiffee MSMF! Happy Valentime’s to the best Roosie a guy could ask for and the best Mama a little Buddy could ask for! You’re the best for fun and games and talking and eating and sharing responsibilities and being with! I <3 you so good!

Happy Valentine’s Day to D Buddy! You’re Mama’s and Papa’s special and precious treasure, and I know you can’t read this yet, but we’re so happy to have you because you’re the best little Buddy that could ever be!

It was on Valentine’s Day that you arrived dressed like a prince charming, a gift for my baby boy and a gift for me-wool socks, two good books and a raccoon puppet. Thank you BKPC for all the ways you take care of us! We love you forever, J&N Wishing my beautiful ladies -China Moon and Dylilah A Very Happy Valentine’s Day! You two are Dear to me! Love Mommy/Mama!

Jana, Two trips to Brazil. You are amazing! I hope the write-up goes well. Then, I hope you have time to play. You deserve some fun time! All will be well. Congratulations! Love, Mother Lil T I wasn’t looking when u 1st turned around, It just happened but now its my time to turn around. Leah Bean, I love you no matter what. Peanut, You are my precious daughter. Leah Bean, When I see you sleeping at night, my heart melts with love. Bug, when we snuggle I am home. S, Forever is better with you. J

Tom and Ann SmithHappy Valentine’s Day!!You two are Very Dear to me and so many others!! We Love You Very Much!!Robin and Crew! Crystal Corner Bar!Friends and bartenders!! My special place to chill,chat,listen to great music and dance!!Love You !Robin You. Me. An old time love story. xoxoxo, QBL Goodman Community Center Early Childhood Crew and Kids!I enjoy my time with you all and glad we’re having fun -singing, dancing,yoga,learning great things, and being kind to one another. You’re All Rock Stars! Happy Valentine’s Day! Love Miss Robin

University Avenue Discovery Center!!I Miss you Alll !! Wishing You All A VERY HAPPY Valentine’s Day!! Love Always Robin aka Sheriff Buckaroo! Dear Roo and Ollie, I love you both so much. You are my best family. I am very lucky to have such a sweet and funny and smart wife and child. Love, Goose Judy, There is no one I would rather destroy a house with! Scott JP You make everyday an adventure Travelling together is so comfortable Growing old with each other is going to be The Best adventure yet! S Farm wifey. We so got this! Next one thing and so much love. My dearest Kimberlee Ann- I love you with all my heart!! Thank you for being so very patient during my tumultuous jobulor bullsh*t in ‘16, I am SO very excited to live life to it’s fullest TOGETHER!! KAYAK ATTACK!! XxOo -d2 K, I will always remember our conversation at Governor’s Island. It was a warm summer’s day and we sat on a log there by the shore of the lake and talked for hours. It was an unusual beginning, but who wants convention? Come and let chaos reign. I love you. H.

Thru the nights Thru the days Days or running Days of cleaning Cleaning together Cleaning forever Forever removing the dust Forever removing what keeps us apart Apart of this world Apart of love Love of the broom Love of the vacuum For our Roomba Kevin. A home birth on our anniversary A home birth of our new son Our new son beams Our new son belly giggles Belly giggles after the kids are asleep Belly giggles because of the kids at random times Random times are in it for the long haul Random times, belly giggles are what I live for with you. McCouch, Without You Life Would Be So... Calm, Relaxed, Predictable, Stable... Boring, Uneventful and Safe. Thanks for keeping things interesting! Emily - Thank you for all the love and support we share. I’m so happy that we joined two families this year into one big pile of love, gratefuls, laughter, music, and donuts. I know you work hard in school, your job, and your prolific video projects. I am so proud of you and love you very much. Dad Happy Valentines Day, Ian. Thank you for the past 7 years. So glad I now get to call you my Husband. Love, Amanda

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Lester Lachuk, I love you! Thank you for all you have given and done for me! You have made all my dreams come true and more! Besos y abrazos, Amy

To Finn, Thanks for another great year as your dad. You’ve done an incredible job overcoming lots of challenges this year, all while maintaining your great sense of humor. Your mom and I love you very much and are so proud of you.

You are beautiful and sexy and our life is fun and awesome! We have our baby bunnies and they bring us so much joy and happiness. You are doing awesome honey and I believe in you! Let’s snuggle our bunnies together and watch cartoons and be happy!

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My Nancy, my joy, my home is in your heart, your soul, and your hands, as your love is held safe and dear in mine. Over the years, I’ve often thought I could not love you more, until I do; until what love itself is, has grown in scope and depth and certainty, because of you. Your treasure, Michal

Making art together is all that heaven will allow. We installed our show, Meaningless and Sure, at the Madison Central Library last week. There’s 5 works, one of which is 30’ across, and the biggest argument we had was whether we had too much yellow on the right. Barb Landes & Paul Sullivan B, the Obama years are over, but we’re not. Here’s to another eight years, or so. Love trumps all. Thank you for continuing to contribute to “us.” I love you, J

Miss Lily - Hope you’re having a good Valentine’s day way out in Vermont! I miss you, but I know you’re getting all smart and stuff while also enjoying regular trips to the mountains and Undernourished Pancake. Happy Valentines Day! - Love Joe Andrew - Happy Valentine’s Day from Madison! Berklee is lucky to have you, but we miss you here! Looking forward to having you around this summer for your wry comments that make me laugh, new music recommendations, and live performances! Love Joe Sweet Lady, woman of mystery, with the Kafka book that’s under your bed somewhere; you got us tickets to the UW campus steam cogeneration plant tour. Sweet Lady, so familiar now, I am still amazed. You, mermaid, floating, lift your dreamy blue eyes, and I feel my heart lift up to meet you. Hello Momsie Womsie, how are you today? You’re my favorite city girl, what more can she say? Happy Valentine’s Day from your country sister, Glenda Splenda. We’ve shared so much in years past and so much more to come in the future. We are twisted sisters, together forever.

Happy Valentine’s days herseys. I still get the Isthmus where I am, I just send a Hawk to pick it ups.

It’s unanimous babyyou’ve got the best ass in the midwest! I’m one lucky man!

USPS Todd Thanks for being such a valuable, reliable hard working employee and supervisor. You’re simply the best. Happy Valentine’s Day from all of your coworkers and friends.

JIM MILLER - a special guy with a few too many grey cells for his own good, but he makes up for it with a big heart, sensitive soul, and terrific sense of humor. Lucy and I love him. MR

Cap Fitness Happy Valentine’s Day to our favorites: Mon Cherie, Peter, Matt, Stevo, Alex 1 and Alex 2. Simply the best, kudos to you, you rock. Little Desmond! My sweet Budgie Bear! I am the luckiest mama around... I love every minute I get to spend with you. I love your tender, generous and enthusiastic approach to everyone you meet. Desi, you are my sunshine! Big hugs from your Mama My darling Scott, you are the very sweetest of sweet potatoes. Thank you for making every day a treat! With boundless love, Megan K, Leaving your warm curves in the morning is the hardest part of my day. Sliding back against them hours later-the easiest. G

Andrew- I am so proud to be your Mom. You have shown me a sense of peace and calm in this crazy world since you were about 3 years old. Please continue to share your Zen thoughts with me. Happy Valentine’s Day Bug. XOXOXOXO Mom Aaron and Molly, You are two of the cutest Valentine’s I know. I love you! Therese Emily, I am so happy we are now officially family. I have enjoyed watching your determination in school and your art. You have a great eye for beauty via video and photographs. I am really looking forward to more fun times together. Love, Therese

J- I love being able to call you my husband! October 1, 2016 was the best day ever. I am looking forward to spending the rest of our lives together. You are my everything. Thank you for always being there for me, our kids and extended families. Love you more! XOXOXOXOXO Mrs. T. Lily- I love you more than you’ll ever know. You are the Sweetest of Bees. The Bravest of Women. Thanks for making me proud and making me smile everyday! XOXOXOXO Momma

MBPT: I like to watch your mind work. #declarativesentences SBK Hey there sexy browneyed Scorpio woman. It brings a big smile to my face when I think about all of the fun we’ve had over the last 20 years. So many laughs and orgasms. I love having you as a friend and I’m looking forward to the upcoming adventures we will have together! MBPT: I love you. #declarativesentences SBK

To my family, I love you. We have a strong bond and there’s not one day that goes by that I’m not grateful for it. I know we are inseparable, so I’m always excited to come home and be reunited. THANK YOU for everything you all do. To FAZA, TO ZE, TO TINY TOTAY, I LOVE YOU From, Tsai/amachibi MBPT: I treasure exploring new, sometimes uncertain, things with you. When I’m with you, I don’t worry about knowing how the whole story will play out before I write the first line. #declarativesentences SBK R-I know I don’t always show it, but I love, love, love you. I’m especially grateful for your enthusiasm: for being a husband, a father, and a person in this crazy world. No matter what the world throws at us, we can hunker down in our little house with our little dog and figure things out. -A Frankie: You’re my littlest love, but my love for you is more gigantic than the biggest dinosaur, train, or truck in the books you bring to me to read. Every day you delight and surprise me. I love you more than you could ever imagine. You will always be my baby and I will always be your mumma.

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Starla-dog: Woof, woof, woof, woof, woof. (You know what that means.) We love you, little dog. -A,R,F MBPT: You make me laugh in 27 different ways. Funny Man. #declarativesentences #plusafragment #foremphasis SBK Dear Hot Potato, I can’t wait to one day make Mashed Potatoes with you one day. I love you so much. Love, Sweet Potato Dear Chris, It was an amazing second year together. I hope you remember that I can be your hero, baby. I will stand by you forever. You can take my breath away. Let’s see what adventures and laughter year 3 has in store for us - bring on Hawaii and chocolates! I love you, Sarah

Happy Valentine’s Day Jackie!!Taking Care of Family is quite Special and Important!!Your niece and nephew are so enriched by your Love and Compassion!! You ROCK !!!You are A Rock Star!! Coco Loves you too!!Thanks for the invite for the Game!

We’ve had r ups n downs now let’s just keep going up n show everyone 2 soulmates completely in love. I know you’re just perfect for ME. I promise from the very depths of my soul I’m doing my part to have us whole again. Love u Debbie now forever and a day I love you even more than I love legos, candy, french fries, chocolate, Paw Patrol, and…wait for it… ice cream! You’re the best little buddy. Love, Papa Our love? Take every moment of anguish strife anger eruption sadness loss frustration shame & desperation the human race has ever experienced and tend to with connection tenderness elation compassion rescue joy empathy celebration & healing. Then wrap it all into a single kiss. Thats a good start -K

TO ALL WHOSE HEART IS FULL OF LOVE AND COMPASSION!! PLEASE PASS IT ON! LOVE RULES’! My heart n soul belongs only to you and I try to make sure I tell you everyday how important you are to me and that you are all I need n want. So Debbie B please be mine forever n I promise to give u the world. Love u sexy mama! Xoxoxo Lynette, you are the coolest, the strongest and the meanest. Love you! –Boy Dear Cute Guy, I’m really sorry I didn’t respond to your very kind and clever greeting. I must admit I was high for weeks. At the time I felt there was nothing more to say; I’d said it all. But now ... None of us knows how much time we have. It’s an accident of fate that any one of us is even on the planet. There are so many things to be thankful for and people to thank. If I never have the chance to tell you in person, know that I will be exclaiming it out into the atmosphere, the stratosphere, the system solar and beyond. Thank you Dear one. I will always care for you so much, for ever and ever. Never to be forgotten, you.

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Torrie, Josie, and Millie, The sweetest Valentine’s treats I know

To my beautiful boy... I will be forever thankful you came into my life. Another year of wonderful memories. “Love looks not with the eyes, but with the mind; and therefore is winged Cupid painted blind.” You have made my heart truly full. “If I know what love is, it is because of you.” Kisses, BTQ.

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