06.07.08

Angela and Joe chose to marry on 06-07-08. They wanted it to be special, and I suppose, easy for Joe to remember!

I think it would be hard for anyone to forget their story. Joe, who always lives with one foot over the edge, found his bride-to-be Angela just a few short months before he went off to war. Even before he left, he knew. He left for Iraq (2nd tour) in April and they married in September. She flew to Rome on his R&R, and he proposed on the Spanish steps. They married in a double-proxy ceremony, cutting right through the red tape and wedding planning. She is now officially an army wife, and everything that comes with it.

I romanticize their relationship, but sometimes I forget about all the sacrifices that go with still being at war.

We flew out to Oklahoma City, where Joe is based, for the Christian ceremony and reception. It was as much of a reunion and homecoming as it was a wedding. Dan, being the best man, truly lived up to the honor. He picked out Angela's ring last year in time for Joe to propose in Italy. He also wrote and delivered the best, best man speech I have heard in a long time. He performed all his duties while dutifully chasing his sixteen month old daughter. So we were truly all together on 06.07.08.

One funny coincidence. At the Marriott in Red Brick downtown Oklahoma City, there happened to be an American Indian conference and parade all weekend. Across the street, the circus was in town as well. Elephants continually blocked traffic. It being OKC, we had several twisters coming too close for my comfort. But for Joe, who I think of as a cowboy, it was only fitting.