We were married on a beautiful fall day in October 2003 in a small town in Northern Illinois.  Renee was working, at the time, for the Episcopal Diocese of Chicago.  We were lucky enough to have two of our favorite people in the world perform our ceremony--Bishop Scantlebury and Deacon Barb Bishop.  We are truly blessed having them in our lives.

The day was bright and warm and the skies danced with the wonderful fall colors of orange, yellow and red.  The church was decorated with flowers and pumpkins arranged by Renee's mother.  The church was not only filled with our friends and loved ones, but with about a million Japanese Lady Bugs.  Not much of a bother since they were on the ceiling, but someone thought if the fans were turned on they would fly away.  They did alright, down onto the congregation!

As our mother's were escorted into the church, our friend, Lori, sang "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" (one of Renee's favorite songs).  At first everyone seemed a little baffled about why the song was being sung until Renee walked into the back of the room.  Then they saw it---Renee's Ruby Slippers.  Renee wore red ruby slippers with her wedding dress.

By the time Renee got to the alter, she and her father had lady bugs all over them.  She couldn't stop squirming and laughing.

Everyone thought the ceremony was beautiful.  The music teacher (Bob Abel) that helped inspire Renee's love of music also sang during the ceremony.

David looked handsome in his tuxedo and his father, who was the best man was beaming as he walked the Maids of Honor down the aisle.