They Said, "I do"...

The marriage and wedding celebration of our son, Evan, and his beautiful bride, Lauren has come and gone in a flash. We have these beautiful photos to help us remember each and every moment. It's sad that you plan for a whole year in advance for one day, thinking it can't get here fast enough, and then it is gone in an instant. I am looking forward to seeing the professional photos. I am sure he captured some amazing images. Meanwhile, I hope you will indulge me and enjoy these photos taken by my daughter in law, my sister and me.
The bridal party was stunning; the men in tuxedos and the women in their blush gowns. Lauren's smile as she walked down the aisle was stunning. She made the most beautiful bride.

I have to admit, our little granddaughters stole the show in their beautiful feather dresses made by my daughter in law. Makenzie, as a junior bridesmaid, was so sweet in her lovely grown up dress. All our grand kids were very entertaining and so well behaved. It was a proud moment for Paul and me.

The true joy came when I saw the tears roll down Evan's cheeks as he watched his bride walk down the aisle. To see the love in their eyes warmed my heart. I've heard it said, "When children find true love, parents find true joy". The joy this day would not be overshadowed by the near 100"F temperatures nor the fact that the party bus transporting the bride and her bridesmaids broke down on the way to the ceremony. The day was pure magic and I wanted it to go on all night long.

Lauren and her mom worked meticulously with the florists and the venue to make sure ever detail was perfect. I wish I would have taken more photos of the table setting, but I am sure the photographer got plenty. Lauren's mom sewed all the table runners and overlays. The florist kept everything indoors until the last minute because of the heat.

The Strawberry-Rhubarb Jam we made as the table favors looked perfect with the flowers and silver and gold table settings.

It was a blessing to have all of our children and grandchildren with us to share this day. There were a few days there where we wondered if Michael would be able to make it with his injury.

We will be welcoming Briana as our 4th daughter in law in November.

I have to admit that this photo of my 10 year old grandson holding his 3 year old cousin during the blessing made me tear up.

Although grainy, this shot of my mom with my grand kids is special too.

This shot of my mom is a tearjerker, too. I'm so glad she was healthy enough to join us. She was a real trooper with the terrain and the heat, maneuvering her walker everywhere. A special thanks to my sister for taking over "mom duty" so I could enjoy the day without worrying about her.

The bride and groom had a sparkler send off. They are postponing their honeymoon until the spring, when Evan can get more time off work.

Thanks for making it to the end of this photo heavy post.