An Apple a Day: Dr. Mark and Pia McEleney Forever

It is certainly wedding season as Will and I had to go separate ways in Iowa to be a part of two different weddings for 4 very good friends. A time that you wish there were more than one of you, but both weddings were beautiful and a big congratulations to both sweet newlywed couples!

Pia was nothing short of stunning and the wedding was a perfect beginning to her and Mark's married life together. As the Matron of Honor that is not one for the microphone, I was a little distracted by the toast I had to come up with and Pia's suggestion to just Google a Hallmark wedding card and read it was tempting. However, I tried to "sketch" something out on the plane ride and while it didn't entirely come out that way at dinner, it was pretty close and I made it through. Thankfully, it came out a little shorter than what's written below. :) It certainly was up there with a sappy Hallmark card and simple as it may be, it still came from the heart.

Toast to Mark and Pia:

Pia and I have been friends for about 10 years now and as young girls do we have planned and dreamed of this day together. However, after all our planning, I don't think we could have thought up such a perfect day as today has been. Aside from the beautiful decor, good food, and fancy clothes, we couldn't have planned the feeling of having a room full of loved ones supporting the union of two special people. This is a big day and it warms my heart to see all the smiles and excitement for Pia and Mark.

Peas- Your friendship means the world to me. You are my best friend, therapist, entertainment, and much more. As much as I love the giggle fits we most often have, the biggest joy has been watching you fall in love with such a good guy and experience a loving relationship that I have been praying for you to have. You have always been there for me and your loyalty, compassion, and fun-loving spirit that I cherish in you are going to carry over to make you such a sweet wife to Mark.

Mark-Getting to know you through your love for Pia has let me see what a perfect match you two are. I have seen you be her encouragement, support, and stability. I am so glad that you are the one who Pia will be building a life with. I know you will take great care of my closest friend and will always be working to grow and deepen a loving marriage.

Pia and Mark, through the years may you remember this day; the love that you felt for each other and the roomful of witnesses that came to support it. May there be many, many years of couple vacations , happiness, and a wonderful marriage. Cheers!