45th Anniversary Toast
by Kristen Hoeschler O’Brien

(speaking version)
August 12, 2011

Hello everyone- I'm Kristen, the daughter.  I'm here with my husband Terry and our two boys, Jack and William.

I do have a brother, Fritz.  We don't get to see him that much, since he is in the Air Force and currently stationed in Turkey with his wife, Julia.  But he sent a note and I'd like to read it to you.

To Mom and Dad, my parents:

Congratulations, and we are sorry that we are not able to be here for your 45th Anniversary. Thank you for setting an excellent example on what it takes to be the perfect couple for each other.

Jack and William, like most anniversary parties that Nona and Papa have had, get ready to waltz the night away. To all the friends and relatives who made it to this party, thank you for helping my parents make the 45th Anniversary as memorable as their 30th Anniversary party, 15th Anniversary Party, and their wedding day.

Mom and Dad, thank you for being such great parents and Happy 45th Anniversary.  We love you and we are sorry that we are not there to be with you.

Fritz and Julia

I'll echo his thanks to all of you for attending.  It's wonderful to see so many friends and family here this evening, and to be able to catch up with you.

I do remember a long time ago, however, when I noticed my parents didn't have such a busy social schedule.  I asked Mom and she explained that she and Dad only had so much time and they chose to prioritize their family time over anything else.  So we were fortunate to go on many, many, many evening bike rides after dinner, or go skiing in various state parks on the weekends, or take some pretty great family vacations.  My folks tried to get to as many of our events as they could, and I swear my Dad was the only parent who tromped out into a golf course at dusk, in the snow, to cheer us skiers on, in dress coat and dress shoes.

And despite our crazy high school schedules, we maintained the Family Friday Night Movie Outing.  Friends were welcome, but we were required.  During the time, I swear we saw every movie out there, including some unrated foreign flicks not appropriate for children (there are a few scenes still burned in here).

We generally enjoyed these events as kids, but as a parent, I am even better equipped to understand and appreciate some of the sacrifices they made to create a strong family.

I also used to think they had the "ideal" marriage -- probably because they danced so well together and I was channeling Ginger Rogers and Fred Astaire romantic comedies.  I know, now, that doesn't exist for anyone, but I think they have a QUALITY marriage, and it has weathered the rough times, and continues on with respect and love.  It's a pleasure to watch them, as a unit, grandparent with vigor and enthusiasm, support each other and walk together in the same direction.

Having married later, I doubt I’ll get this many years under my marriage belt, but I hope my kids look at Terry and me and say:

“Just like Nonna and Papa! They are good to each other, and good for each other, and they loved us and each other.  Aren’t we blessed?”

We love you.  Happy Anniversary.