the wedding...

...was a huge success! My little fire starter didn't catch the place on fire as she lit the candles(like her mother nearly did at her age..), the guest book attendant did his job well and greeted everyone(big step for the kid who won't talk to strangers, normally), the ring bearer went down the aisle at his own pace(practically running) while the flower girl actually dropped the petals. She walked on her own accord, held her own basket(though not at first) and dropped petals right next to anyone who was looking at her and even handed a few out to outstretched hands. She didn't freak out or scream! Progress! She sat between daddy and nan snarfing on snacks nana had stowed in her purse during the service, though she wasn't exactly quiet. My song with my sis went off without a hitch and I think we still sound pretty good together. The bride was gorgeous and stunning and her new hubs was quite fetching, too, I must say!
The reception brought all shades of excitement, but when the band started to play, well, that was when the party REALLY began! There is something about a group of 12-year-olds rockin' out without fear and showing us all what they are made of. The got rave reviews for their first ever gig. They did 12 songs total, 6 were cover songs and the other 6 were originals they wrote themselves. They were every bit as good as the covers they did, I truly believe. I may be partial, but I overheard this from party-goers as well. The little people danced their funky little hearts out and the wee-est one finger painted herself in wedding cake frosting!
It was such a great time and the way a family can come together for such a celebration as a wedding is wonderful. Family is all we've got when it comes right down to it. I am so glad God has blessed me so incredibly with my family, both by blood and by heart.