With this ring...

On Sunday, May 27th, my brother, Robert, married Ildiko Meracz, his fiancee of four years. I've been waiting for this day for a long time!

Our sister, Lisa, presided over the ceremony, delivering a beautiful message before they exchanged their vows. Her darling daughter, Celia, was the flowergirl, stealing the show for a moment as she traveled down the aisle before her dad, Bill, swooped her away. Alec was the ringbearer, he was so handsome in his suit! He actually held the rings until the ring ceremony, a very important job, but I think his favorite assignment was photographing Celia!

Ildiko was the most beautiful bride I've ever seen. She was full of so much grace and serenity. Robert, dashing as always in his black suit, was a striking compliment to Ildiko's fair beauty. The support and love from their attendants was apparent. Tania and Grant stood as Maid of Honor and Best Man. Tania has known Ildiko from her Undergraduate days at CSUN, and Grant worked with Robert at Boeing. Both have been friends with Ildiko and Robert throughout their relationship, and have seen them grow into the strong couple they are today. Julie and Tom also joined them at the ceremony. Julie met them through her fiance, Patrick, who recently completed his PhD in the same program as Ildiko. Tom is Ildiko's older brother.

Ildiko was walked down the aisle by her father, Lee. He was so proud. What a sweet moment! Her mother, Ildiko, was radiant, truly beaming! Many of their relatives were able to join them from Hungary and various places from the US for this special day.

Celebrating with Robert was his mother, Anita, who looked absolutely stunning! Unfortunately, she took all these pictures, so she isn't in any of them. His father, affectionately known as "JimBob," was there with his wife, Betty, both looking charming and thrilled to be there. As mentioned, his sister, Lisa, was the officiant, and her daughter, Celia, the flowergirl. Bill had quite a weekend keeping her entertained! I had the honor of coordinating on the day of the wedding, which had me in my element! Michael and Alec kept a safe perimeter in their black suits, Michael with his RayBans (a la FBI security). Gayle was lovely as always, and introduced us all to Brian Gant, a charming gentleman who she has known since her time in NY. We also had the delight in seeing again Ann and Harold Malm, and Paula Spiker, long time friends of our family. They have watched us grow up, and it was special to have them share in this event.

In the time that Robert and Ildiko have been together, I have seen such an amazing shift in my brother that I can only credit to the love of Ildiko and her family. Although their way has not been without trials, the magnitude of patience and understanding that Ildiko has given to Robert has humbled me. For the past four years, they have been residing in Rochester, NY, where Ildiko has been working toward her PhD in Chemistry. As Robert knows, this also requires patience and understanding on his part, which he has given abundantly. As they begin their lives together, I wish for them all the peace, joy, and happiness that they deserve.

With this hand I will lift your sorrows. Your cup will never be empty, for I will be your wine. With this candle, I will light your way into darkness.
With this ring, I ask you to be mine.