THE WEDDING

Saturday May 29, 2010 Santa Barbara

The day started out very windy but sunny, we had rain earlier in the week so we were watching it closely. As it turns out the wind died down and it got rather warm for those attending the wedding. The groomsmen were standing in black suits and doing a bit of sweating. Our grandson Justin was the ring bearer and by the time the wedding began at 3:30 he was tired and fell asleep in my arms after his walk down the aisle. Many of the guests were stuck in traffic from LA. The bride's brother whose flight was delayed from the east coast due to the weather also got stuck in traffic and since he was giving the bride away we gladly waited for his arrival. It was so touching to see him in his dress blues, he is a Marine, walk her down the aisle. He has orders for deployment for the end of the year. The ceremony was beautiful it was held at Elings Park overlooking the city on one side and the ocean on the other. They had a sand pouring time, which I had never seen before, they each had a bottle of different color sand that they poured into a new bottle to represent the coming together of their lives, much like the unity candle. Mark also served them communion. After the ceremony the wedding party and families were driven by a trolley to the beach for pictures, so much fun, the trolley also picked up the wedding party to take them to the park, my grandsons loved it. The reception was also held there and the food was great and the toasts given by the best man and maid of honor made me cry. We are so proud of them. After the usual stuff, cake, dance and throwing of the bouquet and garter the bride and groom walked to their waiting transportation through sparklers that we were given out since we could not throw any rice or confetti. Jeanette had changed into pants and the two rode off on Chris's new Harley. Thanks to all for your love and prayers and support, it was a perfect day. God bless you Chris and Jeanette on your new life.