Our daughter was married last Friday in Charleston, South Carolina on Johns Island. She moved to SC immediately after graduating from Bowling Green State University. Her home is in SC, but I believe her heart is still at our home, 22 acres of country living. She asked her dad, Tom, 6 months ago if he could build her a cross for their wedding. My husband replied, "Yes," and he found the perfect walnut tree on our property. My husband and son cut down the tree and placed in our barn to dry. 6 weeks prior to the wedding he took the tree to a mill in the small town next to where we live to get the bark trimmed "rough sawn" which was a new term for me. When the gentlemen asked my husband what he was going to make out of the walnut tree, my husband replied, "A cross for my daughter's wedding." The gentleman replied, " I don't charge for crosses. I hope you have a beautiful wedding."
Our friend, who is a master craftsman, offered to help my husband build the cross. One of the biggest decisions was how big to build the cross since we had to transport it to SC in our truck. The decision was made 9 feet which make me nervous, but I trusted the two experts. After several meetings, Tom went to pick up the cross and again he heard, " I don't charge for crosses. I hope you have a beautiful wedding."
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| Four hours before the wedding. Anna sees her cross that came from Ohio |
It's a celebration for me as I reflect on my memories only a week ago. I always appreciate the posts when Ruth shares her intimate family stories. I am honored to share our recent family story today on #celebratelu.
What a beautiful story, Maria. I'm glad you shared it, because I had a feeling that the cross had a family story, it looked so amazing in your lovely wedding pictures. Congratulations again to all!
ReplyDeleteYou know me well friend. I hope you have a relaxing weekend. It's cold and rainy here in Ohio.
DeleteWhat a wonderful beginning and beautiful way to bring the old in with the new. Where will the cross be placed now? Is it still with her? Congratulations on her wedding! So happy for you and your family Maria!
ReplyDeleteThanks Amy for your comment. We brought the cross back to our home. Anna and Brad are renting so when they find their forever home the plan is to place it in their backyard as a memory of their special day.
DeleteDear Maria,
ReplyDeleteI am so happy for you and your family. I had tears in my eyes as I read your story. Our stories are so important and I'm so glad you shared yours. Lots of love to all of you! Julie
Hugs and love friend! We must get together soon. I loved your post today. #heartfelt memories
DeleteWhat a beautiful story! Thanks for sharing and for sharing the pics. I love seeing the progression from cut tree to finished cross. Looks like you had a lovely day for the wedding.
ReplyDeleteA beautiful story. A celebration you will always cherish.
ReplyDeleteThanks Diane, it's been an amazing journey.
DeleteBeautiful story. Such a special gift for the wedding. Congratulations to your daughter. Wishing forever love to all of you.
ReplyDeleteThanks always for your support and kind words.
DeleteMaria,
ReplyDeleteThis is a lovely celebration. "I don't charge for crosses," I was struck by this repeating line. Thanks for celebrating.
Ruth
Ahh Ruth, you're an inspiration to me. The power of story and sharing is so important. Thank you!
DeleteWhat a beautiful gift for a beautiful wedding! :-)
ReplyDeleteIt was a gift for all of us :)
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