"Isn't she beautiful?"

At the conclusion of Winter semester I had the opportunity of helping my dear friend Charisse prepare for her wedding. From choosing the dress to throwing a bridal shower to getting her hair done at 5 o'clock in the morning to visiting the make-up artist to being on time for the bridal photos to watching her exit the temple as the newest Mrs./Sis. VanDerWerken, being a part of Charisse's special day was a wonderful, fulfilling experience.

I still remember many years ago when Charisse and I first became friends. She was from NY and visiting family in Arizona. Our dads had been best friends since Jr. High, and I recall being very interested in knowing who this Miss Standage was. It didn't take long for me to realize that Charisse would be one of the most incredible people I would have the privilege of knowing. Heck, her grandparents had a lime green mary-go-round in their backyard. Of course I was going to be her friend! (she said facetiously :-) ) I even remember eating green eggs and ham for the first time at that house. Good times!

Once college began we both had ideas of what the next 4-5 years would entail. Charisse always spoke of serving a mission while I dreamed of graduating within 3 years from ASU and moving on to a career. As current events have shown, life had other plans. Good plans that is. Charisse is now married!!! And I'm so happy for her. It's been interesting for me to watch Charisse and my other close friends find the man of their dreams. And then, choose to marry in the temple. They have all been great examples to me and again, I'm so happy for them and the choices they've made. I wish you all the best! And yes Doug, Charisse is very beautiful.