A Special Day

Alles Gute zum Geburtstag, Tanja! Happy Birthday! Today is our dear friend Tanja's birthday, and we wanted everybody in the world to know she's awesome. My former roommate in the Foreign Language Housing, Tanja has constantly been there for Jason and I throughout the years. She has played a hundred roles ranging from language teacher to matchmaker, from babysitter to incredible European hostess. We miss her in far away Germany, but appreciate how she keeps us connected through her periodic blog comments. Tanja, we hope your birthday is ausgezeichnet, wunderschoen, and lovely!

Tanja and I near her home in Friedberg, Germany

Tanja holding Brooklyn McCall on her first day in the world.

Brooklyn's very best newborn photo is in Tanja's arms.

Happy Birthday once more, and thanks for being such a great friend.

Today is special for a different reason as well--it's my parents' anniversary.  Unbeknownst to them, I went snooping through their wedding album today and got friendly with the scanner.  Enjoy this trip all the way back to 1977!

Cathy Ann Wells and Kay LeGrand Andrus, long before they ever dreamed of becoming NomiAnn and Papa K.

My parents were married in the Idaho Falls Temple, a year after my Mom's becoming a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  These photos were all taken at a reception in New York--much closer for her family.

Cathy and her little (but taller) sister Alison.

Kay with his new brother-in-law, John (Jay) Wells.

Loving gazes from the newlyweds.

Also in love, even after many years.  These are my father's parents, Garda Doman and Thomas Andrus. 

Here's my father dancing with the mother of the bride, Helen Riddoch.  While my grandma Helen passed away when I was eight, my father has always described her as very elegant.

Dancing with his daughter--here's my Grandpa John Wells with his now-grown girl.

Mother and daughter--Cathy and Helen.  (Sorry about the blurry photo.)

John Wells with Alison.

John and Helen dancing.

Time for cake!

Off to build the future. (My Mom sewed the outfits.)  :)

Now for a lifetime of happily (and a few not-so-happily) ever afters.  But the important thing is, my parents have pulled through it all together.

Happy Anniversary Mom and Dad.  We love you and appreciate your supporting us through thick and thin.  Even though life is crazy busy at the moment, we hope you'll enjoy your special day.