Last fall our family grew by one - a fun-loving young man by the name of Josh. He is perfect for our daughter and we were excited even when they eloped. I mean, who can blame them? The restrictions made gathering for a wedding nearly impossible... however, all this time we have been waiting for an opportunity to celebrate with them in a more public way... A date was chosen, the day after they would go to the temple and have their marriage sealed [preserved for not just time but also for eternity by the power of God which is on the earth]. The plan was for a drive-by reception to follow in Josh's hometown.
The week prior was filled with lots of preparations and planning, lots of phone calls and pictures, and it was so fun to have that common goal drawing family members together. Friday night we had 9 people gather at the temple for the preparatory teaching and sealing ordinances. It was so wonderful to be in the Holy House of the Lord once again. It is a place of love and peace and I have missed it so much [it has been closed for much of the pandemic]. It was extra special to be there surrounded by beloved family members. Melodee was beautiful and Josh radiant. I was delighted beyond expression when I realized that it would be light enough outside still for photos of all who had attended and then add to that delight, a surprise visit from another daughter and her husband and children. They had made the one-hour drive after their children's bedtimes just so that they could be there when Josh and Melodee came out of the temple. What a joy it was to have them there and since the restrictions had lifted to 20 outdoors, we never went over the limit. So many blessings in such a short period of time.
Saturday dawned bright and sunny, but it was still chilly and there was a wind that made decorating the arch a little complicated... however, we persevered as the parents, and we got it looking beautiful. Chad helped me secure the wisteria across the arch as a finishing touch. When the appointed time arrived we were basically ready. Flowers were distributed, and boutonnieres pinned on the men. What a good-looking bunch of young people. Melodee had her aunt and her sister stand with her. One special part of the day was the arrival of Melodee's grandma, who, because of health, doesn't get out much anymore. She was so thrilled to be there. It was a great morning, topped off with a carriage ride for the newlyweds through town. Josh's family then gathered for a meal. [The family dinner was done in two parts to stay within the allotted numbers currently outlined.] Later that evening, Melodee's side gathered for a meal at her grandparents' farm. It was another nice evening and an added blessing was the easing of the wind as the day progressed. They got lots of pictures and it feels like we at least had an appropriate celebration in their honour.
It is hard getting married during a pandemic! It has been a process of over 6 months, but they no longer have to hold space for some unknown date to celebrate with their loved ones. It has been a complete joy to meet and associate with Josh's family a little more - they are such good people - and to feel the energy of the newlyweds as they embrace life with enthusiasm and eagerness.
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