Erica & Dan

Where does the time go? Our daughter is married! Her gracious and fun filled in-laws are here from Sydney, Australia. Paul Barret preformed a beautiful ceremony at the Mercer Island Presbyterian Church . Chad Dierickx sang a heartfelt rendition of Amazing Grace while Val Giesbrecht accompanied him on her violin-an impromtu and very moving gift to the ceremony that left not a dry eye in the room. I wondered at the emotions in the room as MY most recent memory of the song was at my friend Chris Engs' mother's (who died of Ovarian cancer) memorial service not 2 weeks ago. For each of us in the room it signified a different memory yet unified in our thankfulness to celebrate together, each in such a personal moment, the uniting of love and God's grace to have tbrought us to this sacred gathering.
Paul gifted us with a story that added laughter to the somber mood and gave a picture of sharing and message of remaining true and real to each other.
The vows were a work of love, well thought out and words to remember; encouragement even to us who have just celebrated 30 years together, reminders of what new love pronounces. Sean got up to turn the Ipod on at the close of the ceremony, but the live music still rang in our heads. In attendance were Sean, Steve & I, Erica & Dan, Laurie & Maryann (Dan's parents), Paul, Chad & Val (for a brief and moving gift). The simplicity of the event forced a focus on the vows and promises.
The next day we met with the wedding planner and caterers. July will be a new season strengthened by the promises of the day-Sept 30, 2007.