#joy

It has been a joy watching Matt and Kelly prepare for their wedding day (TOMORROW!) and marriage.  From my perspective, it's been such a joyful journey.  I feel compelled to share that, and did, tonight, at the rehearsal dinner:

When Matt was a little boy, when it was time to go to church, our other children would be piling into the mini-van, and I would catch my breath and realize that Matthew was nowhere around – that he was still inside.  I’d find him hiding behind the couch and would have to cajole and convince and grab him by the arms and pull him out.  He didn't want to go to church.

I know I won’t have to do that tomorrow.

Matt will be pacing, and eager to see his bride, marry his girl…formalize what he has known for a very long time – that Kelly is the partner for him, his missing piece, the extra part that makes his life so sweet.

One of the things that I admire about them as a couple – their response to each other.  It’s palpable as if to say, “What do you need?  How can I help?”

10 years ago...shortly after Matt & Kelly started dating, I think I became known as the "hot tub overseer" – I had to!

It's obvious that they were crazy about each other then and, the nice thing is, it's obvious now.

And if they were getting in that hot tub tonight, I'm available...I mean, they're not married yet!

When I first met Kelly, I liked her immensely.  She had a fashion flare, to be sure, but, even at 17, what seemed bigger than that, was her value for all things family.  She respected and represented the values her family taught her and I liked that.  She treated my boy nicely and I liked that, too.

And I must say...If the engagement is any indication of the next fifty years, I'm going to be a happy mom and mom-in-law...

I’ve had so much fun talking to you about Mac fonts and dendrobium orchids and many other details that you have shared with me.  Thank you for including me in the planning of your marriage and I look forward to enjoying you in your new married life.  I’m proud of you both and love you so much.