A wedding . . .

I know it's been awhile since I've really written about our family, and appreciate all that have written and have encouraged us - especially those on the QF list. Thank you. Norm & I have had some real close, sweet times these past two weeks, that I am thankful for. We've been able to have more time to work through things and talk without it ending in tensions. Marriage is definitely work - no matter if it's still your honeymoon or you're married 20+ years. Sadly in just the last few months we have learned of two Christian, dedicated couples, going through divorces, and it's sad to see a marriage crumble after all those years. We have so much to be accountable for, and our children need such a strong foundation.

Last Sunday, July 24th, we witnessed the beginning of a new marriage, that was so beautiful. It was an outdoor wedding on the "hotest day of the year." Some close friends of ours, married off their oldest daughter, of ten children. The mom, Gayle, has been a special friend of mine for close to 13 years - has been at 3 of my births, and our husbands are good friends too. We have been through much together as we have shared our lives very closely - from children's accidents, to rejoicing in new babies, to going through job losses together - many years of tears & joys together. Sunday was a joyous day!

Their oldest daughter, Emily was married to John. They had a short, sweet courtship - about 6 months. They both were committed to staying pure, and the radiance that beamed from both of them was just so incredibly sweet. Their first kiss was after John's dad, who married them, pronounced them husband and wife.

It was such a priviledge to see their wedding. Our children have been "watching" this courtship, and they have set a beautiful example to our children of purity and courtship, for the future for them.

I love this picture of the radiant John & Emily, as two of her siblings greet them.