The bell was tolling on a sunny, chilly October day when Daughter and her fireman made their way out of the church. It was a beautiful ceremony that seemed to whirl by. The fall decor was gorgeous, no one tripped, even the four-legged ring bearer did his job well. Pictures were taken and a delicious meal was eaten. There was kissing, laughing, and a few speeches. The night ended with sirens and lights as the lovebirds were whisked away by a firetruck. The day could not have gone any better for this young couple.

"Well, how does it feel to be the father-of-the-bride?", I asked Hubby on the way home, breaking the silence. His answer echoed my thoughts - a mixed bag of emotions, hard to put in words.

After many years of resigning to the fact we would not be parents, this day was a dream come true. Pride, love, and immense gratitude filled my heart - and eyes! - as I watched Hubby and Daughter stroll down the aisle. Hubby admitted his eyes were sweating too. It truly is a day we will cherish always.

There are some thoughts I did not share the day of the wedding with my "kids":

Dearest Daughter,
Saying that never gets old.  God's sovereign plan to bring our lives together continues to amaze me.  You will be a beautiful bride, although, I find you beautiful everyday.  You have taught me so much, but I know I still have much to learn about being a mother.  As much as I would like to keep you, it will be an honour to give you away today.  Ian makes it easier.  He is a good man and I know he loves you very much.  I love that God surprised you with him!  Now, I won't have to worry about you all the time...just 50% of the time.  Remember, I always love you more, my sweet girl.  
Mama xoxo


Dear Son-in-law,
This seems so surreal!  Not only did God bless us with a daughter, He is blessing us with a son.  The neat thing is you and Ashley seem to be the perfect mix of Steve and I - the biological children we never had.  I love that He does above and beyond what our minds can think of.  We couldn't have asked for a better match for our daughter.  Thank you for treating her like a man should.  Thank you for helping her heart heal to be open to love.  Thank you for loving her.  I did not have the opportunity to meet your father, but I am sure he would have been so very proud of you today.  Although, we would love to keep her with us, giving her away to you today is an honour.  We know she is safe with you and will be cherished always...just like your pager. :)  Thank you, Ian for showing us we can let go of our baby bird.  Enjoy this next adventure in life!
Love, Mom 2