I’m the oldest of three children. I have a sister three years younger and a brother nine years younger. Nearly eight years ago when our dad passed away, I was twenty-seven and newly married. My sister was twenty-four and had been married a couple of years. But my brother was nineteen and only two months into his freshman year of college. While our hearts hurt for our own loss, we worried even more about how difficult it would be for him to be without his dad to look to for counsel and encouragement as he went through school and entered manhood. He was still so young to lose a father. So, the Spouse and I started praying that God would protect and heal his heart. And, we prayed specifically that he would bring someone into his life who loved God and who would love him well.
Then, in a matter of months, that prayer was answered in the form of a girl who walked into my brother’s life and ~ jus as quickly ~ straight into the hearts of our family. She is beautiful, sincere, outgoing, compassionate, talented, mature, kind, and gracious. And, we instantly knew we wanted to keep her around forever.
By God’s grace, this past weekend was the celebration of the beginning of that forever.
Our three girls, along with my niece, were the flower girls. And, they were beyond excited about their role.
Here are a few of my favorite pictures from the weekend…
These monogrammed vases {and jewelry boxes for the little girls} were the amazing gifts for the wedding party at the bridesmaids’ luncheon.
With the bride!
The groom and my mom at the rehearsal dinner.
One of several failed attempts to tie the Spouse’s bow tie. I even had directions and still couldn’t do it.
The women of the family.
Ready for the big evening! The Preschooler was surprisingly calm about the whole event despite her last-minute realization that people would be watching her walk down the aisle.
I think she was proud of her hair. All hairstyling credit is due my aunt who patiently did all the squirmy flower girls’ wedding day hairdos. They’re much more cooperative for a real stylist.
Eventually, we got everyone outside and ready for the pre-wedding pictures. There’s always one who’s running late.
Our youngest flower girl was unaware that she would be wearing a floral headpiece.
So, she revolted against hers by waiting till we got it pinned in place and then thrusting her head back and forth until it fell off.
I’m only including the picture above because I think it perfectly captures my role as a personal assistant/handler for the shortest flower girl. She kept me on my toes. And sweating.
And, she thought her headpiece photo antics were hilarious.
At last, a picture with the bride!! Someone couldn’t take her eyes off of her.
The fab four going to the chapel.
So thankful for a team of sweet bridesmaids who knew all the best tricks for keeping these girls entertained before time to do their part.
And, so thankful for the Spouse who danced the night away with these two dancing queens. They love a fun reception, and this one didn’t disappoint! The Preschooler was concerned she might miss the cake, but I made good on my promise to come find her as soon as it was cut and ready. Her piece gave her just enough energy to finish out the night on the dance floor.
The mother-son dance.
A quick picture on the lawn while a gracious attendant {and kindergarten teacher} kept up with the girls on the dance floor. Seriously, we had to take shifts because most adults don’t have that kind of energy!
This uncle loves his girls. And, the affection is mutual.
And, we are so, so glad he loves this one special girl.
