Q: My wife and I are planning to celebrate our 50th anniversary in March with all of our friends and family. To show my wife how much I love her, I've been trying to devise some special little way that I can surprise her. I'm writing a short speech now to express my appreciation, and I want to make it perfect.

My goal is to have a speech that's full of love and has a dash of humor. Can you think of any way to help me?

A: Congratulations! It's truly a blessing to be able to remain happily together for 50 years. My advice is to have a strong structure to your speech and then fill it in with your own feelings.

First, thank your guests for coming to your party and sharing in your celebration. If there are some guests who don't know one another, introduce them.

Next, thank your wife for sticking with you for 50 years. Make sure to tell her that you're looking forward to spending even more time with her going forward!

Now is a great time to share an anecdote with the crowd — you only have a lifetime to pick from. Tell everyone the story of how you met and figured out that she was "the one." What happened leading up to the marriage? How did your parents react to your new partner? Did anything exciting happen at the wedding? What have been the greatest moments during your time together? Have you made any interesting discoveries?

If you have children, don't forget to mention that one of your greatest accomplishments has been seeing your children grow up. They'll appreciate it!

To add a little humor, you could quote Philip Barry's definition of love: "Two minds without a single thought!" Quotes can be a great jumping-off point for your own thoughts.

Finally, end your speech clearly with a sincere and simple toast to your wife. Guests always appreciate knowing when to start clapping! — Doug

SAYING SORRY

Q: I have been angry with a neighbor and giving her the cold shoulder for several months. Last week, I found out that I have been angry with her over a misunderstanding and that I overreacted.

How can I fix it?

A: We all have our weaknesses and succumb to them on occasion. It's important to learn how to recover from our mistakes.

Psychiatrists believe that many of our impulsive reactions are rooted in a lack of self-esteem and a need for control. Your health, finances, stress and upbringing can all be factors that affect your tendency to react in unhealthy ways. Think about why you reacted like this.

Because you have had a negative impact on her life, it's time to balance things out and make reparations.

To address the problem with your neighbor, explain and apologize for your behavior. Offer something small to show your desire to reconcile. It could be a homemade treat, a favor or anything that you think will improve her day.

Going forward, try to be forgiving of others when you feel aggravated. Nobody is perfect! — Emma, Doug's granddaughter

Doug Mayberry makes the most of life in a Southern California retirement community. Contact him at [email protected]. Emma, Doug's granddaughter, helps write this column. To find out more about Doug Mayberry and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.