A WISCONSIN WEDDING:)

THE BEAUTIFUL BRIDE AND GROOM, ANNIE AND BRETT:)

This precious couple, Annie and Brett are finally married. We were so blessed to be a part of their special day. It was Greg's first wedding to perform, so that was kind of exciting. But really it was just so exciting to see them get married. We always knew that they would, but it was so fun to have the day finally arrive for them. Annie was one of Greg's youth at St. Paul's, and she and Brett have dated for the past 8 years... Greg was so honored to get to marry them. It was kind of funny after the ceremony Greg admitted to me, that when they opened the door and Annie and her dad were starting to walk down the aisle he started to get all teary eyed. I hate to think about what he will be like when it is his own daughter. It was a beautiful ceremony, beautiful bride and groom, beautiful day and great to get to talk with old St. Paul's friends.

We absolutely enjoyed our trip to Wisconsin, although it was REALLY quick we were able to cram in a lot. For me the at the wedding I was struck with a bit of the long term reality of not having Samuel here with us. I couldn't help but think that we would never see him get married. We know there is no guarantee that we will see all of our living children get married, that may not be what God has for them... but at least they will have a chance to. So far I have really missed all of the here and now that I would be missing, cutting teeth, crawling, almost walking, smiling, snuggling, etc. But it made me realize I will never get to experience him learning how to drive, graduate from High School, get married... all of those long term things. Kind of made me sad in a new, different way.

We went to the church that I grew up at, Brookfield Lutheran Church. It was amazing. We had never heard their new pastor... but today I spent time in the car writing him a letter. I had to tell him what a miracle it was that we were there yesterday to hear the message that he preached. Seriously, I haven't been back to that church in at least 10 years. But the week we are there, the pastor preaches a message that was written for me. All of it, every single bit of it. It was on Lazarus being raised from the dead. He talked about worry, doubt, fear, our faith,and the big one WAITING ON GOD'S TIMING. I am sure he wondered what was going on when our eyes connected during his message and the big puppy dog tears were just rolling down my face. He was a dynamic, powerful preacher, but really I was amazed by what he said and how God brought us there to hear it. I think I will download it so I can listen to it again and again when I need to. Seeing old friends there was wonderful too, and it always neat to see how other churches do things.

I will post more pictures in a couple of days from our hike with all of the family. We praise God for safe travel and a wonderful time with family and friends... I do have to admit traveling with a bit of space was an incredible blessing for us.