When I was a little girl, I wanted a purple room all to myself. I was six and up until that point I’d shared a room with my older sister Cathy. In my mind, the extra bedroom in our house was just waiting for a fresh coat of paint before it was mine. Looking back I’m not sure my parents had ever actually promised me a room of my own. And the room I claimed for myself, well, it’s been blue for nearly 30 years!
As it turns out, my purple room was the best gift I never received. Instead, I got two things: 1. the chance to share a room with my sister, which formed a friendship like no other and made for the most wonderful childhood memories (and that could be a whole other post!); and 2. my little brother CJ, who I’ve adored since he came into our lives.
So why do I love CJ? Because he’s generous. Generous with his love, his time and his talent.
Because he shows up. In person or through Facetime, you can count on him to be there to celebrate life’s big, and not so big moments with you.
Because he laughs, out loud. When he thinks something is funny, you’ll know because his laugh will be the one you hear above all others, and then you’ll laugh too because you just can’t help it.
Because he’s smart. Setting aside his many academic and professional accomplishments, he chose to marry Brittany. Someone who is equally as generous, loving, fun and smart as he.
They’re good together, and together, they’re good for our family.
And now for a few favorites from their wedding. Please excuse the extra long post. It’s tough to narrow down pictures when it’s your own family! And just in case this isn’t enough for you, you can view their wedding day slideshow as well!
Des Moines, Iowa Wedding