50th Anniversary Celebration

Married for 50 years and still have a vibrant marriage!  What a wonderful reason to celebrate.  For some people celebrating a 50th Wedding anniversary is best done with a small family party and with the couple repeating the vows that they spoke 50 years ago at the beginning of the marriage.

But in our family recently the conditions were just perfect for a celebration that could involve the close family, the extended family, and even the town where they spent most of their 50 years of married life.  Specifically, my wife's second to oldest brother Norris and his wife Fawnette shared their joy and good fortune with anyone who cared to join them.

Following is a sort of picture story of this celebration.  Please click on the picture if you'd like to see a larger version.

	The celebration day started with a parade, not for Norris and Fawnette but to celebrate Taylor Town's Sweet Corn Festival.  It was an opportunity for Norris and Fawnette to honor the town at the same time the town cheered for them.
	There wasn't a trailer big enough for the whole family but there were representatives from most branches.
	Guests coming to the party were greeted by the bride and groom - Fawnette and Norris who tried to spend time with each person attending.  They are shown here with Fawnette's wedding dress and Norris's Army uniform  - the attire they wore when they were married.
	Almost all of Norris's siblings and spouses were able to attend.  His older brother and sister-in-law had mission obligations.
	Most of the children were also able to attend.  You may notice the poodle skirts worn by the women.  They set both the theme of the party - late 50's - and the color worn by their family.  The latter was especially helpful in figuring out which little child was looking for his mother.
	Each of the children with help from their family perform something for the program.  Here, Fawne's family (note the purple theme) sang a beautiful love song in lovely harmony and a capella!

	Michelle's husband John played his guitar and led his family in another love song.
	The color coding ever showed up when a family was waiting their turn to perform.
	Before and after the program, the young men and women of the family manned the ice cream and cookie bar, providing both refreshments and reinforcement of the 50's theme.
	I think they enjoyed their assignment.
	Two quilts were made by the children and their families.  One shows various activities and interests while the other is photo oriented.  Be sure to click on the quilts to see how lovely they are.
	Norris broke into the middle of the program with a surprise solo of his own which concluded with his giving Fawnette a beautiful diamond Mother's ring.

A good time was had by all.  

Thank you Norris & Fawnette for your lives of service, for your wonderful family, and you example for us all.