Life happens fast. My firstborn son married the love of his life this past June. In a couple of days, my second born son Andrew is doing the same. Two weddings in a little over three months. And as the big day draws near, I’m feeling nostalgic.

Andrew, as I think of you today,  great memories flood my mind. I’ll always remember the day you were born. You were so quiet and I remember asking the doctor: “Is he okay?” I breathed a huge sigh of relief when he told us, “Yes Dad, he’s healthy!”

I’m thinking about your first prayer as a toddler: “Sun… moon… monkeys. Amen.” You were thanking God for the sun, the moon, and curiously, monkeys. Still makes me smile. I recall countless games of indoor basketball and NHL 94. When you were 2 or 3 years old, you’d catch mom and I kissing, and you would say in a high-pitched voice “Woo… Mommy and Daddy are in love!” On the rare occasion you needed discipline, you’d get so offended afterward and say to me, “You’re da meanest!”

Andrew, I have wonderful flashbacks of skiing Mt. Holiday together. Following your soccer exploits was a blast. Watching you play sports was a treat.  I’m thinking about how funny you were (and still are). We’ve been through a few ups and downs over the years, but my love for you has never wavered. And I’m enjoying watching you grow as a man. You’ve truly been a joy to raise.  And I’m glad we’re still great friends.

Parenting boys is a both a privilege and hard work. It’s exhilarating and disappointing at times, joyful and nerve-wracking. You pray for them daily, ask God to help them become godly men, to guide them as they discover their destiny, and to lead them to a future spouse that loves Jesus and loves them (and loves Laura/me too!)

Andrew, we’re proud of you. As the big day nears, we’re happy for you. Amanda, we’re pleased to welcome you as a daughter into our family. And can I put my dad hat on for a minute, and offer you both a few words of advice? Put Jesus at the center of your lives and marriage. Learn to depend on Him and not on your own strength. Love unconditionally. Forgive quickly. Make each other your priority. And dream big together for God. Never settle for less than what He created you for.

Andrew and Amanda: Mom and I speak God’s blessing over you and your marriage. We commit to pray for you daily, and love you unreservedly.

Let the wedding festivities commence!

Dad