What to say...

It has been 4 days since Emily and Evan got married. So why have I not posted anything about it. I'm not sure, but I think partly it is not knowing what to say, and still letting the reality of it all soak in. I will give it a go.

I have been the mother of the bride 3 times now. Each time has been memorable, each day has been a joy and delight as I have watched my beautiful girls become married woman. But Emily's was different, on different levels.

Saturday was a glorious day weather wise, sunny, but not to hot. All the brides attendants looked beautiful in their black dress, all the grooms men, handsome in their tuxes. Evan was in uniform, his bright blue eyes set off by its dark color. Emily was the most beautiful I have ever seen her. Her wonderful smile, her twinkling eyes peering through her birdcage veil, spoke volumes of her calm spirit. She walked down the isle, I know, wishing her papa was at her side. With incredible grace she made her way to Evan, beaming every step.

How proud I am of Emily. How very much I love her new husband. God has been very good to us. He once again has filled a void in our hearts by the addition of Evan. A new son, a dear son, a most blessed daughter.

I just got off the phone with Emily. She called from Canada just to check in. It was good to hear her voice. How I long to hold her and tell her I love her. I will soon. They will be here Friday to load her things into a moving truck, and then they will head south to Evan's new duty station. There will be mixed emotions in the hugs that will be given. I am so excited for them as they start their new life together. It will be an exciting time for them as they create their first home together. I remember those days. Yet, there will be a sadness as I hug my baby goodbye. I will miss her so very much. I miss her now. She has been a comfort, rock and friend to me in this last year and a half. We have been through a lot together, there has been a strong bond formed that is hard to put into words. What to say... "Who gives this woman to marry this man?" 'With great joy, I do.' I meant it, too.