Sunday, June 22, 2008

My Best Friend's Wedding






Yesterday I had the opportunity to attend the wedding of my best friend, Eric Pedersen in Kennewick, Washington. Two months ago Eric called me to say that he was getting married June 21, 2008 and that he wanted me to be the best man. I was both shocked and honored with this news.

On Friday I had planned to leave with Eric's brohters Brad and Karl at around 2 pm that afternoon. As I was driving there, Brad called me and told me that Karl had missed his flight into Boise, and that we would not be leaving until 10 pm that night! So I called, Debbie, Eric's mom to tell her of the latest news. So to make a long story short, I decided that I was just going to drive myself to the wedding because I did not want to miss the dinner and festivities Friday night. For thos eof you who know me, I fall asleep easily in cars when traveling, so I was nervouse to drive alone for four hours.

The drive was relaxing, I was able to think and contemplate and to just be alone. Oregon is beautiful, Washington so green. I didn't fall alseep and made it just in time for the dinner later that night. It was Tina's large family of 11 and Eric's small family and I that attended the dinner. It was very simple and refreshing. We had green salad, rolls and pasta. As the best man, I was asked to take ten minutes to tell everyone about Eric and some of the best times of our friendship. I told of the time when I went to take him to the MTC in Provo with his family and of our scouting high adventure when we slept the night on the side of a mountain in our man made contraption.

After the dinner, Eric and I were able to habg-out and remember good ol times from when we were in high school. It was great to laugh again, and ti just be with my best friend! I had forgotten so many of the cray times until Eric would tell a story and take me back so many years ago. I am so thankful for him and his friendship over the years.

I was invited to attend the Temple Sealing at the Columbia River Temple in Kennewick, Washington, it was perhaps one of the most incredible experiences of my life! We had the luncheon at PF Changs, and then drove another two hours to Ellensburg for the reception. We stood in line for two hours and greeted people who came to celebrate with Eric and Tina. To both of them, thank you for allowing me to share in this incredible and unforgettable experience!

8 comments:

Unknown said...

Prima donna

Shaw Family said...

That is so awesome I didn't even know he was getting married! Glad that you had a great time~

Melissa Snyder said...

I am so glad that you went to his wedding. What a great experience it is to see your best friend get married. I am glad that you got there and back safely too. They all look very happy in the pictures. Sure love ya!

Unknown said...

So is that how i get you to come visit, tell you i want you to be my best man! Ha! Miss you! You are looking happy!! :)

Unknown said...

look how much fun you guys had. ditto, glad it was a safe trip. and so happy for eric, man he sure is a nice guy. :> and you are a perfect best man. so happy to see life is going so good for you justin!

laneyfamily said...

I am glad you had such a good time and made it home safely. You look so handsome in your tux!

erin said...

What a stud! Justin, it is so good to hear from you and see what you have been up to. I can't believe I have three kids either! It has been a long time since Ricks but sometimes it feels like not so long ago. You are too cute!

Debbie said...

Justin: I'm so glad I found your blog, how fun to see your pictures. You know, as crazy as that wedding was, I had such a good time. I'm so glad you came, it would not have been the same without you. And who could have found calla lilies but you. Anyway, we love you Justin!!