"A new baby is like the beginning of all things,
hope, a dream of possibilities."
June 16th, 1985 was Father's Day...
and the day a precious baby girl
~ Miss April Schmelzer ~ was born.
Nearly 18 months later, an event occurred
that would shape this little girl's future,
but she nor the little baby boy realized it.
You see, September 24th, 1986
was the day my brother
(and her future husband)
~ Mr. Evan Ross ~
was born.
Five or six years went by before they would meet.
On that day, three children were introduced to our Sunday school class.
~ Philip, April, and Paul Schmelzer ~
I was immediately drawn to April. She was being very shy, with her head hung low.
I went over and took her by the hand, then the class formed a circle and prayed. I remember thinking she was just so pretty and sweet ~ a little lady.
I hoped she liked me, and wished we could be friends...
Sunday after Sunday, we all got to see each other at church. I can remember weaving through churchgoers, looking for Mom after the service to ask if we could go to the Schmelzers' house ~ and if not ~ well, then could they come to our house? So many Sundays we spent together. The Schmelzer and Ross families blended into one big family. Our parents were friends, April was the sister I never had, and Paul, Philip and Evan were brothers.
Years went by, and gradually we stopped asking to go spend the day at each other's houses. We were still good friends, but there were just things that got in the way ~ homework, boy & girlfriends, Summer jobs...
Most of us eventually went our separate ways, but Evan & April continued to be friends and see each other regularly at church. They got one another's sense of humor, and were so happy when they were together.
Only one problem... Evan got engaged to another girl.
She was nice, and would've been welcomed in to our family.
However, things just eventually dissolved... including their engagement.
When Evan & April started dating, I think everyone who knew them was holding their breath ~ hoping and praying they would see how naturally they just 'fit.'
Christmas Eve of last year Evan proposed, and happily she said YES!
Ever since, plans have been made, a shower given,
and with the wedding rehearsal tonight... that will be it.
Tomorrow is the day.
Twenty five years ago, September 24th was a wonderful day... full of happiness that a son had been born. I see it fitting that this was also the day chosen for Evan & April to enter in to their wedded bliss. Another celebration, new life ~ two become one, and so much happiness for them both.
I cannot wait to see their happily ever afters...
because, unlike the end of a beautiful movie or book, this is not 'The End,'
it's merely another beginning!
"...like the beginning of all things,
hope, a dream of possibilities..."
Congratulations!!
May you be blessed
beyond even
your own
hopes & dreams...
Love ~ your sister
