Melissa and Mike were married last night in a lavish and no-expense spared ceremony at a local country club. My niece is very particular about her tastes, and this was without a doubt a fairy tale dream wedding. But, and I say this with some hesitation because I shouldn't be negative, it was so rehearsed and scripted! There was very little emotion from the bride and it was mentioned over and over again that Melissa would not have anyone helping her and this was all her. It was absolutely beautiful but I think I would much prefer a backyard shindig that everyone just let go and had fun.


The wedding party was 14-strong. 6 bridesmaids, 6 groomsmen and in the picture above, with the parents barely possible to keep in one frame. This was without a doubt the biggest wedding our family has ever seen.


Here's a pic of me, which my family teased me unforgivingly that I resembled Joan Rivers. Not funny and I believe I may have responded with comments that would have made a trucker blush. My family definitely were all in their cups this night, and it showed. Although my mom felt it necessary to tell everyone that would listen that I do have a boyfriend and he's a soldier in Iraq. This was a big change considering she, up until now, wouldn't even acknowledge the relationship. I chose not to correct her about the soldier part. Soldier, Sailor...6 of one, half a dozen of the other in this context.


This pic, of my big brother with his little girl is my favourite. My brother Bob was so incredibly proud and puff-chested, it made me teary. It was his day as much as it was his little girl's.


The bride and her 6 best friends. The honeymoon will be in Cancun, with most of the bridal party in tow.

It was a decent time. I always feel so uneasy at functions like this, being on my own. No matter what happens, there is always a good bulk of the evening when you sit totally by yourself and it kinda highlights being single. I tried very hard not to let it get to me, and showed pics of Todd to anyone who came by to chat, but I missed him very much.

More pics are here.