Nick & Kayla Franklin
May 23, 2009
We prayed......
The Lord has a way of bringing light to every situation. We all had a very different view of the wedding. It wasn't about what was going to be ruined or about who was going to even consider coming.. it was about accepting that the Lord was working to bring this day about in His way so it could accomplish His will.....
It's been 4 days since the Kayla and Nick were married. They are no doubt in Jamacia enjoying themselves and hopefully having a wonderful time together. We returned to Seattle and it's been a time of reflection. I can't believe how blessed we are as a family. I think? most parents want their kids to find the perfect match for them. I know Dwayne and I have prayed for our kids since before they were even born that the Lord would bless them and use them in amazing ways. We never would have guessed our Kayla would be the first to marry. We love Nick and think the world of him. He loves the Lord, is generous, caring, considerate, selfless, and a young man of integrity. Dwayne and I have always hoped that when our kids find their mates that we would be able to join arms with their perspective mates families and truly widen our circle to include both families. Nick's parents, Donnie and Debbie are such amazing people. I remember getting to hang out with them last 4th of July and thinking, Lord- this is an amazing family.
Dwayne and I would often times just sit and talk about how neat it is that we feel we could actually call Donnie and Debbie and say, let's go to the lake and just relax - without our kids! ;) And we plan on it!
I think this wedding was another wonderful show of how our families worked to make this time special for the kids. Debbie played not only mother of the groom but mother of the bride. Since I was so far away she really did step in and help Kayla when needed.
The wedding was like no other wedding I had been to, it was evident from the Rehearsal dinner that they wanted the Lord to bless their marriage and they asked if their family and friends would come and lay hands on them and pray for them. It was really a beautiful moment. Nick started leading our daughter as a spiritual leader at that very moment. It was so very special.
The ceremony was officated by Dwayne, and after talking to Kayla and Nick he set the order of ceremony focused on their desire to join in a covenant between them and the Lord. Finishing the ceremony with taking the Lord's Supper together. It was beautiful.
Josh and Justin were as emotional as Dwayne and I . They too felt the pang of change as they saw their little sister being taken in the arms of another man. However, they happen to love and respect Nick - as a matter a fact. They now have a big brother.
Not only did we gain a son but we gained an extended family - Natalie who is Nick's little Sister, Joey, Natalie's fiance' and Joey's parents.. Sorry but Angela and Joe.. your soon to be family as well! :)
My heart is full.... and I am happy.... and feel so very blessed......
Thank You Lord ~
