A Wedding

Ten years ago today, there was a wedding. A wedding on a warm, spring day. A wedding for a farmer's daughter from Missouri to a pharmacist from Georgia. A wedding in a small town church where the bride's family had been attending for years. A wedding for a couple that knew they were right for each other the moment they met. A wedding offiicated by a very special minister. A wedding where guests traveled from near and far to attend. A wedding for two people that were surrounded by so much love from their family and friends. I am proud to say that this was my wedding.

I woke up excited that morning. Ecstatic that Scott & I were finally getting married. I didn't feel nervous, but anxious that everything would turn out the way I thought it would. Soon, I was off with my mom and sister to attend a bridal luncheon in my honor at Mrs. Winchester's house. The boys were off to Mrs. Vicki's to eat at hearty lunch. After the luncheon, and a short rest at my parents house, my mom dropped me off at the church to meet Jane Ellis, who was going to do my hair and makeup. I walked into the church and I was the only one there. I wandered into the nursery where the girls would be getting ready. I set my bags down and sat down on the floor. I allowed myself to lay down for a minute. I prayed. I thanked God for Scott and that we were brought together. It felt good to be peaceful.

Jane Ellis arrived and quickly went to work on my hair and makeup. We were by ourselves for a little while. Talking and laughing. It was special.

My mom and sister walked in. My future mother-in-law and sister-in-law arrived with Seleta in tow too. Then the rest of the girls arrived. They brought gossip magazines to read while they waited. My Aunt Kathy and Aunt Lee were there too. The next hour consisted of hair, makeup and nails. Once everyone was beautified, we walked out into the sanctuary for pictures. They took a long time. My family was patient (?) After pictures, we went back to the nursery to hang out. Time seemed to stand still until it was time to go. I was worried that when I opened my mouth to speak my vows that nothing would come out. My Dad finally came in to get me. He was breathing deeply to hold back the tears. I thought about how much I loved him and how thankful I was that he could walk me down the aisle. After all the girls went down the aisle, Mayme changed the music and off we went. I was shocked at the number of people in the church. This many people really loved us enough to come to our wedding? Wow. I saw Scott. He saw me. We cried. I left my veil on for the ceremony. We tried to listen to the minister. But our heads were swimming with happiness. We tried to light the unity candle. It wouldn't light. Scott stuck his hand in the hot wax to hold the wick while I lit the candle. He does love me. The minister spoke about a recipe for a good marriage. Again, we tried to listen. Finally we exchanged rings. Scott lifted the veil and we had our first married kiss. Mayme started the music up again and off we went down the aisle.
We headed off to the reception at a mansion in Cairo. Our cake melted. I didn't care. We danced. We visited. The cops made it a party for the history books by showing up. My lawyer cousin discussed probable cause. Finally, it was time to leave for the B.V.I. We said goodbye and were on our way to the rest of our life!

Here's to another 10! I could not have married a better husband or father. Thank you for tolerating all of my weirdness. I love you, Scott. Happy Anniversary!