"The Story"
A Tribute to our Kids
Matthew and Leslie
Matthew, it all started when you were born.........
No.....wait,
It started before you were born......
When Julie was pregnant, we knew we needed to pray for you before you were born. Through an incredible ministry at Elmcrest Baptist Church of Abilene, we learned another concept: that we should pray for the one you would one day marry.
So, before Leslie was born, before we knew who she was, we prayed for the one you would one day marry. All along, Leslie, we showered you with prayers without every meeting you.
So, the journey began.
Then one day, while enrolled at ASU in Jonesboro, Arkansas, Matthew, you met the one you would marry. I had gone on a mission trip to Romania. One of the team members was a friend of Leslie and would be instrumental in yours and Leslie's meeting. So, the meeting was set and then your journeys began.
After dating for some time, I remember the talk we had, Matthew, when you asked me how I knew that Julie was the one I would marry. I knew then the reason for the conversation and I remember the answers I gave you. I also remember sharing with you that only you would know the right one and the right time. So, before Leslie knew us or you, we prayed for her. I prayed everyday that the Lord would protect your future wife and would call her name to belong to the Lord. And then, one day, you were talking to me about the one that Julie and I had prayed for so many years without knowing her identity until you brought her to us.
When Leslie went to England for extended studies, we knew that this would test whether or not this was real.
Upon her return your lives picked up speed and then came the engagement. It was hard keep quiet while knowing ahead of time that you had purchased the rings and would soon ask her to marry you.
Well, 4 years ago, the weekend came for your wedding day. Julie's sister, Chris, and daughter Michelle, came for the wedding. We all traveled to Kennett for that exciting weekend. And then the work began.
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The decorating and preparations were amazing and once they were finished, the amazing moment came. Sitting next to your mother, Matthew, Julie and I watched you fulfill what was stated in Genesis chapter 2. You would take a wife and begin your history together, united as one.
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Four years ago, today, the Nelson family was changed forever. We gained a daughter. Our son gained a bride. What began as a prayer, for a daughter we did not know until this day, has now grown into a family including a daughter we now cherish. Thank you son for giving us a daughter. Thank you Leslie for sharing your life with us. Thank you Holloway family for giving Leslie to Matthew, four years ago, today.
Happy anniversary Matthew and Leslie.
We love you and are so proud of you.
There will be many more days to cherish like this one.