“And I Love You So” is a beautiful song written by folk singer Don McLean and was a hit for singer Perry Como. But for her late Mark and for Melanie, it was the epitome of their love story. They both sought out love and finally found it in each other.“And I Love You So” became their very own personal stamp for the love they shared for one another. From having “AILYS” engraved on the inside of their wedding bands to how they always signed their cards, AILYS became who they were.It also became their resounding legacy when Mark’s illness struck six years into their marriage, challenging them to live out their wedding vows in a way they never imagined: for better or for worse; in sickness and in health; until death do us part.And I Love You So is a story about hope and grace and the strength of the human spirit.With a deep desire to help others walking along a path of pain or grief, this book is a guiding light in an ocean of darkness, leading you to find peace within whatever reality you may be living. Additionally, Melanie’s hope is to highlight the importance of taking vows when embarking upon the sacrament of marriage.Through the eyes of someone who’s had the privilege of finding another to call home, this journey also highlights the importance of honoring the vows that are committed to regardless of the hand being dealt.It’s a story about love, loss, the widow who was left behind, and the God who never stopped being in charge._____BIOGRAPHYI am a widow. This is a descriptor I never would have dreamed would be attached to me at such a relatively young age. But I am.I grew up in the New Orleans area and was surrounded by a loving family, friends, and I am blessed to have a firm foundation in my Catholic faith. Little did I know in my early days how much I would come to rely on that faith. I never—and I mean EVER—dreamed the word “author” would be attached to my name. After the death of my sweet husband, I knew I needed to share our story. The purpose was two-fold, and I was only cognizant of one aspect as I thought through this goal. Firstly, I wanted to share our story to help others who may be walking their grief journey. Additionally, I wanted to highlight the importance of commitment—it’s easy to walk away in today’s world. Walking away from a commitment isn’t always the best response. Secondly, the act of putting pen to paper was amazingly cathartic for me. Of course, there were some very tough moments to relive. I know that it helped me to realize that both of us did the very best we could while embarking this journey “in sickness.” I had no idea how healing this experience would be for me as I grieved the loss of my Love. As a child of God, I continue to seek the ways He is using me to share my experience of love and loss to help minister to others. Our world was brighter when Mark was here, but we all strive to keep his memory alive.* * * Melanie was born and raised in New Orleans, Louisiana, to Marilyn and Jim Baker, her parents whom she is grateful to be living nearby. Her brother, Jim, and his wife, Mary, are also in the area and are tremendous support. Melanie frequently spends time with Mark’s parents, and finds great comfort in this connection to them and to Mark.