Happy Anniversary Chris and Julene!

It is surreal to think that it's been fifteen years 

since the day your dad walked you down the aisle, Julene, 

toward your handsome groom and the future that now is yours.

I think back to the weeks before the wedding 

as we planted flowers at the lakehouse, built an outdoor stage, ordered white chairs

set up an arch - for the wild roses to be added on the wedding day . . .

only to wake up to pouring rain on this day, June 10, 2000.

Yet, as I sat in the church pew listening to the song the two of you had prepared,

 I knew in my heart that all was well - 

this most special day began as a picture of 

 handling disappointment with grace and celebrating what matters.

When I think about your wedding the words still ring true 

as they reflect your commitment and love

no matter the obstacles.

I wish I could hear you sing it today . . . as I imagine you will.

Tomorrow morning if you wake up
And the sun does not appear
I... I will be here
If in the dark we lose sight of love
Hold my hand and have no fear
'Cause I... I will be here

I will be here
When you feel like being quiet
When you need to speak your mind
I will listen
And I will be here
When the laughter turns to crying
Through the winning, losing and trying
We'll be together
'Cause I will be here

Tomorrow morning if you wake up
And the future is unclear
I... I will be here
As sure as seasons are made for change
Our lifetimes are made for years
So I... I will be here

I will be here
And you can cry on my shoulder
When the mirror tells us we're older
I will hold you
And I will be here
To watch you grow in beauty
And tell you all the things you are to me
I will be here,

I will be true to the promise I have made
To you and to the One who gave you to me

And just as sure as seasons are made for change
Our lifetimes are made for years
So I... I will be here
We'll be together
I will be here

lyrics by Steven Curtis Chapman

May today make you smile at the romantic side of  young love,
making promises that have come to be tested and tried,

yet shining as gold refined by the grace and power

of the One who has led you all this way.

May the Lord bless you and keep you.

May the Lord make his face to shine upon you,
and be gracious to you.

May the Lord lift up his countenance upon you,
and give you peace.

Numbers 6:24-26

Sending love across the ocean,

Mom and Dad

The sun is shining here today!