Twinkle and Binkle, The Starr News: Gary and Hiromi celebrate their 20th Anniversary March 26, 2013

Gary and Hiromi will celebrate their 20th wedding anniversary which is March 26, 2013. In searching through earlier correspondence from Gary; I found some information about their wedding day in a letter he had sent us. Hiromi was kind enough to share some of her thoughts from that day, and we have gathered some earlier pictures to share. When they returned from Japan to the United States they stayed with us for a few months. July 31, 1993 they had a wedding ceremony and reception at the Rose Street Chapel and family and friends gathered to congratulate them and share in their celebration. Richelle, Stefanie and Angie sang, Gary did some speaking, and he and Hiromi sang a duet. My sister Carol and her daughter and two children from Utah were able to be with us.

Gary wrote in his letter, “Hiromi and I were married on March 26, 1993. Before coming over (to the United States) I didn't know what was required but we went to the American Embassy in Tokyo and found out that it was pretty easy to do, so we did. Seeing as how we were going to be living together for over a month before returning home, I thought it would probably be best. It turned out that that was the exact same day that Hiromi's oldest sister and brother-in-law (the couple who's house we're staying in) were married. So far we've lasted over a month and we still love each other so who's to say it won't last forever.

“On the 27^th of March we had a big party at a restaurant in Tottori with about 40 of Hiromi's friends. We also had a picture taken of the two of us and a group shot with some of her closest friends. That was the first time Hiromi ever wore a kimono.”

Hiromi writes,

“I remember just few things...We put a marriage certificate to City Hall March 23? 25? And around that day, we had a party at one of my favorite small restaurant. We invited my friends who worked with me at a preschool and a hospital, and my favorite two professors from my college. My two best friends lead this party. (One of them was Keiko.) It was kind of a 'marriage and good bye' party.

“We reserved the whole restaurant, so everybody could talk and eat any time. Gary gave them a speech, and showed them some magic!! The owner of the restaurant baked a nice Yummy cake for us. (we didn't know!) It was a nice, fun and yummy party. I've never wore the Kimono before, so one of my friend let me borrow hers. She said before I move to the US, I should wear a Kimono at least one time! Hahaha”

Mom: We are glad your friend said you should wear a Kimono before leaving Japan, because now we have a nice picture of you in it. You in a Kimono, and Gary as a sumo wrestler, haha. Couldn't resist!

“Here are some pictures of the American reception: