For almost half a century it has been my pride and privilege to stand beside one of the most extraordinary men of our time. I've known his thoughts, shared his joys and triumphs, and felt his pain. Our path together has taken us to heights neither of us could have imagined, and through difficulties that, alone, neither of us might have endured. Through it all, the journey has been truly grand - for I have had the joy of traveling with my beloved companion - Ronald Reagan.

I've often said that when I married Ronnie, I thought I'd married an actor. Well, I quickly found that I'd married not just an actor but also a dynamic political leader! Before we knew it, we had left our peaceful lives in Hollywood to reside in the governor's mansion in Sacramento, and then, incredibly, in the White House, where Ronnie changed the world for the better and became on the most beloved presidents of our time.

I should not have been so surprised by this turn of events - Ronnie's life has always been extraordinary. And as I flip through the pages of this book, I am overwhelmed by memories of his life and our life together: his humble midwest beginnings; his sportscasting and acting careers; our years in public service as well as our time spent among friends and family, saddled on horses at Rancho del Cielo, and relaxing at home. But mostly, I see Ronnie: the gifted world leader, the loving husband and father, a man of depth, humor, compassion, and love for his country, its people, and life itself.

Not all the memories are good. We faced an assassination attempt, several battles with cancer, the bleak days of Iran-Contra, now a long struggle with Alzheimer's - but Ronnie's unquenchable optimism and courage always saw him through, and buoyed me along as well. Part of his strength - and mine - came from you, the American people, to whom he dedicated his life of public service. Your letters, gifts, and prayers have encouraged and cheered us - and made us proud to live, as Ronnie would say, "in this great land we call America."