April 9, 2005

April 9, 2005… a day to remember as my little sister married her best friend… someone who she had been friends with since seventh grade. A relationship whose communication was strengthened and sustained by nearly daily phone calls from Bosnia to Moorhead Minnesota… local calls thanks to satellite technology and our armed forces.

The morning came and people gathered from all over the United States, all over Northfield and even from Guatemala to share to witness and to have fun. My dad and I went to the reception place “Grandpa’s Garage” to help Tim and his mom… it was fun to watch my dad help make the flower arrangements for each table… out of character but fitting for the love he had for his daughter and desire to make her and Tim’s day special. Maren and mom went to get their hair done and Maren in her dress.

When we gathered at the church… my dad came in to see Maren before the other men… and in true Danish fashion, while tears welled in his eyes, his responded with a smile and a thumbs up.

Before they saw one another…the bride was relaxed in her wedding dress and tennis shoes. The groom was enjoying the family who had already gathered in the church. When they saw each other is was clear; they have a solid foundation to build this marriage upon. Both were and are ready to begin their married life together.

Jenny sang… we all processed in… Pastor Craig preached… Maren and Tim married one another… and Randy and I signed on as witnesses of the marriage of Maren and Tim Sevcik!!!

The dance was a blast. The Danes left early and while initially disappointed by the Rowan’s when assured that he just needed to wait another hour, Tim’s expectations of the Rowan’s were met. We danced until the day ended… and then many slept it off into the next. Tim’s friends had it figured out… they went out onto the dance floor, pitcher in hand… granted each time it seemed as if the groomsmen had a few less layers of clothing… Nick Haugen tore up the dance floor yet again… he should really consider hiring himself out as a party starter. Alex Rowan caught the guarder and I caught the bouquet.

It was so wonderful to see people… and to try to talk with as many as possible. Especially since both Tim and Maren are Northfielders… many in the church service and in the reception were shocked that they knew so many people on the “other” side.

I joyful day and a joyful beginning to their life ahead. May God bless them and all those who are married abundantly. Amen.