jess and dan's wedding

I love when the bride walks down the aisle. I think it's my favorite part of the wedding.

Jessica looks angelic. She is a beautiful bride. Her dress is exquisite, and it is veiled by her happiness.

here comes the bride, accompanied by her parents, Jill and jimmy

There is something very emotional watching two people commit to each other for a lifetime. Dan and Jess are unwavering in their belief of the other.  They are lucky; they have found the one. The one who will make them each stronger and better. Who will love them unconditionally. And who will be there at the end of each day (metaphorically speaking, of course). To hear about their successes and disappointments, both big and small. To protect them from life's many furies. To make them feel safe. Safer than they'd be alone. There is more joy in two than in one.

The second best part of a wedding (in my opinion) is getting to talk to the guests, relax, and indulge in an impossibly abundant and overwhelming amount of incredible, diverse food. 

There's the meat station, including lollipop lamp chops with mint jelly. passed mini grilled cheese sandwiches with mini tomato soups. A sushi station. Three kinds of fries. Mini burgers. Different kinds of pizza. Shrimp tacos. A raw bar. An Italian-food station. And an open bar. And everything is so good. And we are hungry, having not eaten since 11 this morning.

All this before dinner is even served.

Chloe is a huge hit as the flower girl, but her real talent and interest seems to be dancing. She moves to the beat, mesmerized in front of a talented quartet. She demonstrates more rhythm than most adults.

Amanda and Jason, her parents, are very proud.

As are Valerie and Abbey, her grandparents.

It's nice to get all dressed up for a joyous occasion. 

My family likes getting together, and  the youngest generation never shuns the oldest one.

my mom (almost 88) with Alexander (almost 25)

my mom dancing with jack (21)

The two grande dames are out there on the dance floor until one am. Their energy surpasses many half their age.

Phyllis and Rita (94)

After the appetizers comes dinner and dancing. The band is phenomenal, and the food continues to be outstanding. Everyone is having a good time.

adam and rachel

adam, jason, jack, alexander, michael (my mom's 5 grandsons)

The speeches continue, and the bride and groom are clearly touched by the kindness and sometimes unexpected revelations imparted by those speaking.

A little after one, many of us board the bus that will take us back to our hotel. Some stay on for a post-wedding party.

It's been a glorious celebration for Jess and Dan.

May their future be filled with as much joy as they both embodied tonight.