In an age of short (but sometimes very sweet) text messages, it is always nice to be reminded of a time when love letters were standard. Getting a message from your sweetie was not always as easy as checking the screen in your pocket. Old love letters contain a special kind of effort and showcase adoration in way that only something handwritten can do.

Some of the sweetest examples of old love letters are between Barbara and George Bush. They have a special and downright adorable relationship as evidenced in their love letters from 1943. These letters from the 90-year-old couple date back to when George was training to become a pilot in WWII and the couple was newly engaged. They have now been married 70 years and these letters are a special reminder of the relationship that they have shared together. No emoji hearts here, just lovely handwritten messages.

The letter from George Bush to his “Darling Bar” detail his excitement of their recently announced engagement. He says ‘I love you’ in many ways and the affection with which he writes is tangible. He even mentions their future children and dreams about their future life together. There was a once a time when he was eager to head off to sea, but as he says, “Bar, you have changed all that.” His interest changed from defeating the enemy and going on an adventure to returning home as soon as possible to be with his girl again. He goes on to invite Barbara to the commissioning of his ship and gives her tips on how to sneak in by “pos[ing] as the Mrs.”

“Bar’s” return message to “Poppy” is a bit shorter, but her adoration for him is clear. She fears for him out at sea and exclaims her excitement to see him at the commissioning.

What a wonderful memento of a lasting, loving relationship!

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