On Sarasota's gorgeous Siesta Beach, I was happy to be invited to the wedding of

Phil & Emma Powell!

Phil is the son of longtime friends and fellow Trinity church goers Gary & Jill Powell of Rolling Meadows, Illinois.

Phil had met his lovely Emma while posted in the UK working on a military base there. Emma, a local British babe, worked at the same location, and their fateful meeting turned quickly from a friendship to a courtship.

They were married on Friday Oct-10 right on the beach under a beautiful sunny sky and very warm temperatures in the low 90's. It was a small intimate, affair of just under 30 people.

In the picture above left, Phil is shown with Emma alongside his parents Gary & Jill and sister Lisa. They stood in front of a beautiful Sand Castle fashioned by their wedding planner. You won't find a better family anywhere.

We were instructed not to take pictures during the ceremony, but as you can see I squeezed off a couple. Trinity's own Pastor Ben along with wife Rachel made the trip down south to conduct the ceremony and did his usual stellar job.

After the ceremony, we whisked off to Mattison's 41 Restaurant in Sarasota, where we all were treated to an excellent meal, desserts, & speeches.

The Bride & Groom left the restaurant running a gauntlet of sparklers held by us all as they left. Truly a beautiful night.

Following a short honeymoon, Phil & Emma will return to the UK and their jobs, but their longer term plans are not yet decided, even after my advice to stay in the UK forever!

Picture to the right is the Happy Couple during their reception.

Phil & Emma....

God Bless You as you begin your life together