I woke up early-ish and went for a walk. Walked to the bagel place to get our favorite bagels and cream cheese. Picked up some other things to try out our new espresso machine and walked home. I woke up E with the promise of coffee and breakfast. Then we cleaned up a little and I logged into my work email to see if anything was going on. Not much, thankfully. E and I went for another walk. We set up a game plan for the day. We went to lunch, and E dropped me off at home so I could start getting ready, and he went to wash the car. My mom came over and she and I went to the church so E could finish getting ready at home by himself. We arrived at the church just as the guy was delivering flowers. They were a bit of a disappointment, but oh well. Other people started arriving, so I went to the room to get dressed.

My dad came back and we walked to the doors to wait for our cue. I could hear the music. Finally it was our turn, so we started out. I was looking at everyone there and totally not looking at E. Don’t ask me why. I wish I had been. When we finally got to the front and I looked at him his little chin was quivering so bad. It was so sweet! We stood in front of the altar while the opening song was sung. Father had some comments and then we went to sit for the readings. My dad’s fiancée and E’s mom did a great job with the readings. Then, after the sermon, it was show time. We said our vows and exchanged rings. Neither one of us cried and we did a great job!

E and I participated in the ceremony by bringing up the gifts and helping to minister communion. That was nice, and I think a nice surprise for the family. We hadn’t told anyone we were doing that. After communion, we were called up for a final blessing, and as Father said, “it’s time for the big ol’ smooch”. We walked out after that and it was over. It did happen pretty fast. I think our participation in the mass really helped us be in the moment instead of just spectators.

We greeted everyone and went back inside for pictures. That went smoothly and quickly. Then it was off to dinner. Dinner was great! I think everyone had a good time and enjoyed themselves and the food. There was a few instances of clinking the glass for E and I to kiss. It was fun until my nephew decided it was a good idea and had a hard time not clinking. No one stayed too long so we were home by 8:30 or so. We opened some sparkling wine and opened presents. Everyone was beyond generous and we received some lovely gifts.

I fell asleep on the couch and went to bed without washing my face or anything. I woke up around midnight and THEN got up to wash my face and brush my teeth, and went back to bed. And today is like any other day except I am married. E left for work, but my group told me they didn’t want to see me today. So I’m going to get started on thank you cards and go pick up some things for our trip.