Give the Bride Away? Finally!

The day was perfect on Kewarra Beach. The sun was shining but the gentle breeze coming off the ocean provided a perfect backdrop to such a momentous event.  Di looked resplendent in her off the shoulder shoulder A-Line dress with a lace bodice.  Rusty and I were honored to be the ones to give the bride away.

Rusty and I escorted the beautiful bride across the beach to the waiting groom as Songbird by Eva Cassidy played.  As beautiful as the day, the beach, and the dress were, nothing could have prepared me for how beautiful Di looked with an expression of hope and joy lighting from within.

One is protective of family, especially of one's chosen sister, but seeing Di in this moment I knew that this is a wonderful new beginning in her life. All of my doubts and fears of whether this is the right choice for Di and whether this is the right partner for her particular brand of crazy floated away on the sweet smelling ocean breeze.

The bride and groom exchanged sweet vows that spoke of the long and arduous journey and the anticipation to start into this brave new world.  Rings were exchanged thanks to Yosiell the ring bearer, and a kiss sealed the deal.

Truly a bittersweet moment.  One lives so many years following the trials, the tribulations, the mistakes, the joys, the laughter, and the tears with someone else and a new person enters into the picture.  I have a vested interest in my sister and am selfish regarding my dreams and wishes for her.

I know Dan to be a caring and loving soul.  Flawed? Yes, aren't we all.  But I know that he will work at this relationship.  He is tenacious, fearless in his affections, and has an enduring love for Di. He is silly, funny, slightly shy, and a bit reserved...really not all that much like Di at all, but that is why they are really good for each other.  I know he will be there for her in the good times and in the difficult times .   She has earned someone as special as Dan and I know he will live up to each of my dreams and wishes for my little sister.

So, take a moment to get some bubbly and raise a toast to the happy couple.  They have earned a chance at a joy filled life, and a fairy tale happy ending.

An incredible setting for a wedding,  

Minutes before the ceremony.  Last minute jitters, we both kept a strong hold as we weren't about to lose a bride on the walk up to the ceremony.  

With two maids of honor walking the bride down the aisle, there was no room for an actual bouquet so Rusty and I wore the bouquet on our jackets! 

Dapper gentlemen! 

Ready for some wedding festivities and of course cake! 

Enough said?!?!

As if this place could get more beautiful, the sun started to set as dinner and drinks were served.  

Noice! 

It looks like Sarah caught the bouquet, congrats Sarah...you'll never have to fear vampires by marrying a garlic farmer.  

The handsome and charming groom! 

Unmitigated joy and love (and a touch of red wine)! 

May your marriage be long and prosperous, may your love be strong and generous, may you live to be old and grey, may you always be as happy as you are on this day.  Cheers!