The Alaska Celebration

Thank you to all who were able to attend the Greek themed wedding celebration that Robin's parents threw for us at their at home in Chugiak, AK in August 2007. Some traveled hundreds of miles for the event! It was wonderful to share the joy of our union with dear ones. We wore our wedding outfits, so we'd be identifiable. Here are some pictures from the reception:

Outdoor fun

It was a casual outdoor event, which suited us very much. The weather was beyond cooperative.

Great weather
Delicious Food

The food was amazing! Many family members and friends brought a dish to share, which added to the already abundant Greek feast.

A Beautiful salad makes a happy Risch
Big Fat Greek Cake

The cake has a hole in it. (joke from "My Big Fat Greek Wedding")

It is a bunT
Under the tarp

Robin's parents set up tents because Alaskan weather is full of surprises.

Under the tent
Melissa!

Robin was surprised to see how one of the girls she babysat years ago had grown up! She once was a baby like her cousin's twins.

Cousin Mark's twins
Misti's kids

And also to see how her school friends' children had grown!

Andrew shows Robin the fine art of Ikebana
Moose's Tooth and Alaskan beers... Mmmmm

Dionysus was certainly present at the reception and helped ease the shy ones. Oopa!

Have some more Ouzo, Robin.
St. Mary's pre-school volunteer squad

Robin's parents and their friends kept the party going with their much appreciated hard work.

MANing the BBQ of lamb, salmon, and chicken kabobs
Robin and Shawna with Uncle Ron, talking trains

There sure was a lot of smiling going on.

Sweet Misti
Aunt Marn, Aunt Joanie, and Mom Nelson

Weddings sure are a great "excuse" to bring families together.

Mom and her siblings
Aunt Carole and Counsin "Cuz" Sue

And more family. :)

Grandmother up on the deck
Ha, ha, ha!

Ha, ha, ha! Robin married a Geek, not a Greek!

Mary, that is a Greek flag, not a Geek flag!