A Letter from Brandt and Sandy

Dear John and Linda,

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!

First and foremost Sandy and I would like to WISH you both the BEST on your 35th wedding anniversary! We pray you are both well and happily looking forward to at the very least, another 35 blissful years together an then some, God willing!

I can still remember your reception and the anticipation Bob, Carl and I felt when we heard there was no BAND but a couple of strolling minstrels that Uncle Carl liked and I believe recommended for the occasion. Remember back then, every wedding had a band. DJ's for weddings were unheard of back in those days and besides , who ever heard of a couple of strolling minstrels entertaining a wedding party. Boy were we wrong! To this day, when the subject of "best weddings we have ever attended" comes up, I can honestly say, yours has always been at the top of our list, at least from what I remember of it (that of course was until our daughter and Jose wedding last year). As I remember it also gave our parents a lot to talk about for years to come. My mom, even to this day, chuckles when she talks about how Carl couldn't find the car for your dad after the reception. Yep, that was a very good party!

You know how important family is to us. I have always cherished the time we spent together as cousins at Holidays and special occasions. My only regrets are we couldn't have continued that custom after we were all married with families of our own. The few times we have gotten together brings back some memorable moments. There was the time we stayed at your first home in Michigan but you didn't tell us about your cat. Sandy had the surprise of her life when it pounced up on her in the middle of the night and then proceeded to play with her hair and swat her head until the sun came up.

On another stop by your place, Kristine was playing at the neighbors and you called her home to meet us. Your little china doll, all decked out in a pretty sun dress, had been playing in a dirt pile. It lookedl ike she had enjoyed every minute of her play time as she was covered with dirt from head to toe. I'm not sure who was more surprised, you or us. I think you said something to the effect, as any proud mom would, with a smile on your face, "this is our little girl, Kristine". That precious picture is etched into my mind today as if it happened yesterday.

You folks have moved around several times and if my memory serves me correctly you are now in your 6th home, not counting any apartments you may have started out in. We have only had the opportunity to visit with you a couple of times in your Michigan homes. You both have always been such gracious hosts. We can't thank you enough for the times you have opened your doors to us. You know you are always welcome in our home should you ever be looking for a place to hang your hat around the Chicago area.

Hope you are enjoying your special day together reminiscing over the last 35 years and the wonderful children you have raised.

May God's Love and Blessings continue to bless your marraige!

All our Love,
Brandt and Sandy Leischner