U.S. President Bush Plays "Father Of The Bride"

Crawford TX (AHN) - President George W. Bush will momentarily set national concerns and international issues aside on Saturday evening to walk one of his 26-year-old twin daughters, Jenna, down the aisle.

In a private outdoor ceremony at the the Bush's 1,600-acre ranch in Crawford, Texas, Jenna will exchange "I do's" with long-time boyfriend, Henry Hager.

Jenna, a schoolteacher and author of several children's books, had been firm in wanting the wedding in Crawford and not at the White House because, saying she felt more comfortable in her hometown.

"I think the White House is a historical, beautiful building, of course, and place, but I wanted to have something more private and something that fit my personality a little bit more," the bride told CNN's "Larry King Live" in an April interview.

The Associated Pres said preparations got under way Friday with the bride, first lady Laura Bush and daughter Barbara attending a bridal lunch for family and friends at an inn in Salado, The president made his way there later in the evening to attend a rehearsal dinner hosted the groom's family at the Old Salado Springs Celebration Center .

Observers, however, are noting a change in the president's demeanor. CNN said that as Bush prepares to give away Jenna in marriage, he also is learning to let go.

FOX News said the father of the bride even used his weekend presidential radio address to honor Jenna and her mom,Laura, on Mother's Day.

"This is a joyous occasion for our family, as we celebrate the happy life ahead of (Jenna) and her husband, Henry," Bush said, adding, "It's also a special time for Laura, who this Mother's Day weekend will watch a young woman we raised together walk down the aisle."