Busy Memorial Weekend

Wow! Busy weekend - we're glad to be home.

Friday evening we had a high school graduation for my nephew (why OK has it Memorial weekend I'll never know). We didn't get to bed until well after midnight. Then we had to get up early Saturday to finish preparations for the big family reunion. Mom and I were tired!

We hit the ground running Saturday morning as we plopped a few pies into the oven, started some casseroles, etc., etc. At our family reunions, food is never in short supply. When family began to arrive later on, there were chickens, slow cookers, potato salads, deviled eggs (yum!), baked beans - you name it - that piled my mother's kitchen countertops until there was no room left. We even set up a completely separate table just for desserts. I think I gained ten pounds just looking at all the food. Once again, a too late of a night.

Sunday afternoon, my sister invited us all over for a cookout and swim. Ah, I could actually relax for once! Originally we were planning to come home Sunday evening, but my son was having such a good time with his cousins that we ended up staying over until early Monday afternoon.

The weather forecasts for the entire weekend called for rain, but it never rained on our parade. The only storm was late Sunday night/early Monday morning. Then on our drive home, it hit us right as we were pulling into town. Couldn't have asked for a better weekend all around, but I was so glad to see home. Finally, an opportunity to get some needed zzzzzz's.

A Whirlwind Wedding Weekend

We went to a wedding over the weekend. Eight hour drive. It was so worth it!

Even though the wedding was small, I couldn't help but go. I have eight nieces and nephews (and one great-niece!), and this was the first wedding of that next generation. She looked absolutely lovely.

Years ago I was the one everyone came to to assist with their weddings. At one time I also thought about opening my own wedding planning business. This time I was hog-tied into running the music and figuring out a complicated sound system. With time to spare the system was soon tamed, and the music played exactly where and when it was needed. I love conquering a challenge!

The mascara was running even before the ceremony. As my brother-in-law walked my niece down the aisle, there was scarcely a dry eye in the house. Both of them were already blubbering so it was only natural for the rest of us to join into the celebration.

The pastor reminded my new nephew-in-law that he was charged with making my niece feel like the queen of their household. He then had to quip, "Does that make me king?", sending the entire gathering into a fit of laughter. Even in the midst of a sober undertaking, humor was demonstrated. Laughter can be a real balm in the chaos of life, and I hope they are both able to maintain their ability to laugh when difficulties come.

Overall it was a whirlwind wedding weekend. How's that for an alliteration?