Today marks the first day of a new life,  two lives that will be joined as one—Jay and Sarah on their wedding day.

They’ve been preparing for this day for many months now, taking notes, most likely, at other weddings they’ve attended this year,  including  the August wedding of Jay’s cousin, Paige. As I write, the girls will be getting their hair done, the young men spending extra time with their grooming. This afternoon, we will witness the vows that Jay and Sarah make to each other.

Jay is my nephew, son of my sister Joan and her husband Ron.  Jay, the first of their three children,  has grown to be a fine young man and has made his parents proud. Makes us proud too. He worked hard at his studies and excelled, got a job and is doing well there.

 Back in February, I sent Jay a birthday message. He responds that he appreciates all those best wishes and the people who send them. When he was in school in St. Catharines, he called on my husband several times for advice about some maintenance issues he had with the house. He listened, put the advice into action and learned from it. Now that Jay and Sarah have a home of their own, I’m sure he’s been using what he learned earlier.

When I met Sarah for the first time, my sister was hosting a graduation celebration at their home. They had invited the extended family and also neighbours.  We played lawn croquet together, and I found Sarah to be fun-loving and a good sport. Later she was sitting on the ground playing a game with Heidi and Gerry’s daughter, Aleigha, tapping sticks to whatever rhythm the little girl beat out. I have a picture of that and I love it.

 Having since met Sarah’s parents, I see that she was raised with the same love and respect that Jay has known. I see the two together, and I smile, for they are made for each other.

Jay and Sarah: We are pleased to be invited to celebrate this day with you, and we pray for you today, for health, happiness and joy in your life together. Our love to you this day and always.

 A toast to you on this special day.