A Special Gift

Saturday night before dinner, Berni and Dave brought upstairs a wrapped wedding gift. "What is this?," we asked. Well, after opening it, it turned out to be the most special wedding gift we have received thus far.

Nate grew up with Berni's sister Brenda's in-laws being just like grandparents to him. They are a little older now and couldn't make the trip all the way here from Washington for the wedding. Instead, they sent the most meaningful gift with Berni and Dave to deliver to us. You see, Virginia paints...she does pastels, oils, and lo and behold even paints on cermaics. She is 86 years old and is just incredible. It's so great for someone to be able to continue to do what they love and are passionate about, even at such an advanced age.

So our special gift? None other than a painting of the church we will be married in. Take a look...


How incredible is that? She got everything down to the detail of the Virgin Mary statue displayed out front of the church. After my pottery painting experience at the bachelorette party (more on that to come), I appreciate talent like this even more!

On the back was this:


It's probably hard to make out in the picture. It says...

Kelley and Nathan
wed
October 4, 2008
Immaculate Conception Church
Loose Creek, Missouri

What a great memento we will be able to keep and treasure for our lifetime together. Thank you Virginia!