Celebrating a Very Special Occasion

So, just what would bring me to Phoenix, with Christmas less than two weeks away?

The answer to that question is:  the nuptials of my long time friend, Tammy to her now-husband Gerry.

  Tammy and I go way back, to second grade, I do believe (I'm certain that she remembers better than I), and it was a pleasure to be able to make the trip to attend this special event in her life.  I'm fairly certain that I could win the award  for being the "oldest" friend in attendance, not that I think that I should have any bragging rights to that.  But it was definitely enjoyable to meet so many people who are now a part of her life and see how many lives she has impacted in such a positive way.

Tammy and Gerry were married in a Quaker ceremony on a bright sunny day in a Friends Meeting house in Phoenix.  I was completely unfamiliar with this type of ceremony,  and you know how I love to take photos, so I was sure to ask and was encouraged to take as many as I felt comfortable taking.

Now, how's that for a challenge?  Don't worry....I was discreet.

I had read enough about the ceremony to know that Tammy and Gerry would be sitting next to each other, facing the people in attendance.  

Note the tissues under the table

Good thinking!

On the table was the official certificate waiting to be completed as part of the ceremony.

The event began with the couple walking together 

Then they stood to voice their intentions

Tammy first

Then Gerry, with cheat sheet in hand

Then the couple sat down, side by side, and enjoyed the testimonies as many in attendance offered their well wishes for this happy event.

The marriage certificate was signed

Then, everyone in attendance did the same.

There was fellowship in the hall afterwards, where we realized that we weren't the only Geisler's  in the place to call this special couple friends.

Of course, we had to get a photo with the newlyweds sandwiched between us

Ok, I'll be honest and mention that the couple on the left actually spells their name with two "ss" as Geissler, but they were certainly surprised when I introduced myself, and we all got quite a chuckle out of that coincidence.  Note the Quaker bonnet that Tammy is sporting in this photo.  Never a dull moment, that's for sure!

The reception was held in the evening at their home, where the house was lit up with decorations celebrating this special occasion,which was held on the feast of Our Lady of Guadelupe, who holds a special spot in Gerry and Tammy's life.

Congratulations, Tammy and Gerry

Thanks for inviting me to be a part of this special celebration in your lives!