Fifty Years

Fifty years ago today my parents were married in the Salt Lake Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

(June 21, 1963)

Sadly, my dad is not here to celebrate. He passed away November 9, 2006.

My mom has been alone for 6 1/2 years now, but she is not really alone. My parents were married not only for the time they shared together on this earth, but they were married for all eternity.

I miss you so very much, Dad. I know Mom will be spending the morning in the Salt Lake Temple then visiting your grave in Clearfield today. Mom, Happy Anniversary.

(2005)

Fifty years is a great start on forever.

Wedding Day Smiles

Wedding day, cheek hurting, joyful smiles are the best.

The bride and her daddy

The bride and her mama

The groom and his mom

The groom with his brothers-in-law

Photography by Haley Ann Warner

The Reception, Part 2

The picnic table was moved off the deck onto the grass where it became the "kid table". We covered it with paper, then added crayons, balloons, and bubbles.

The Reception (Part 1) can be seen here and the reception TREATS can be seen here.

Photography for this post by Haley Ann Warner

Forever Starts Today

Rachel and David were married in the Provo Utah temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on August 13, 2010. They were married not only for their lifetime, but for eternity as well.

Coming out of the temple to be greeted by loving family and friends

Group shot

With sisters and new sisters-in-law

Supporting Kellie

Just the two of them on the temple grounds

Together Forever

Photography by Haley Ann Warner

Click here for a 3 minute video of why those of my faith build temples.

Just the Two of Us

My brother-in-law, Jerry, took this picture of Brian and I as the newlyweds were leaving for their honeymoon. I think it captures how, in the end, it really comes down to just the two of us.

As we watched Rachel and David go, it struck me deeply that she really wasn't mine any more. She was his and that was how it should be. It would be just the two of them together from now on--working it out and working it through.

I remember when Brian and I left on our honeymoon and "just the two of us" began.

Twenty-six years and four kids later, we are happy. It has not been easy. It has not been graceful. There has been much learning and growth, but I am glad that in the end it will be just the two of us. Our challenge is to keep it strong NOW so when all the kids leave, we won't look at each other and wonder "who in the world are you and what are we going to do now?"

The Reception

Can't you see these two in 50 years with the exact same smiles and pose?

Before the reception began I took a few moments to snap some photos. The guests entered on the west side of our home greeted by flowers and paper lanterns.

My Mother-of-the-Bride wrist corsage

My siblings and I (photo courtesy of brother-in-law, Dan)

The glowing happy couple

Sweet Treats

The event of our summer finally arrived. Rachel and David are married. We had a great celebration in their honor with lots of photos to follow, but for now I want to share the FOOD.

Rachel knew exactly what she wanted--a dessert buffet with colorful miniature options.

My AMAZING friends kept everything restocked and in order throughout the entire night. I am truly humbled by their selfless service. I feel very loved.