another tiring but *wonderful* weekend...

struggling through all my practice sessions years ago in high school, i never knew that my violin skills (or non-skills at this point) would get me included in some very special weddings...but boy, do i feel lucky to have been a part of 2 so far.

any experience (professional development workshops, church worship services, etc) is more significant when i get to see/participate in the "behind-the-scenes" details, but to do so in good friends' matrimonial ceremonies is so much more meaningful.

me w/ the lovely bride & groom

and i'm still pondering how they did it, but some how, the couple made me feel so loved at *their* wedding. i walked out of the festivities feeling not just happiness at their union - but that i got to know them as a couple better and that they truly valued me as a friend. was it all the toasts or the detail that went into the wedding? i'm still not sure, but i do know that they let all of their passion, personality, and even quirkiness shine through every aspect - and the sum total was that i left feeling more appreciated and i loved them, God, & the idea of marriage more too. it was a celebration not only for them but for all of us. strange? but isn't that the most ideal feeling for a guest at a wedding? it was beautiful.

and w/ the wedding came a bunch of friends from out of town! i love that added bonus!

class of '99 + me.

i've got another wedding coming up in less than 2 weeks, and i'm super excited to be a bridesmaid. what a priviledge! =)