Wedding at Swiftwater

Dawn's early light floods our room,
as thoughts and memories flood my mind
the morning of the big day.

We opted to stay at the Inn at Suncadia
and leave the house we rented to the wedding party and all their preparations.

We arrived after dark from the rehearsal dinner,
 and had no idea we would wake up to a 180 degree view
 of the eastern flanks of the Cascade mountains.

The view was simply stunning.

Photos just don't do justice.

As the morning sunrise reflects on the nearby mountains,
I reflect on the many years that brought us to this moment in time.

Our own simple wedding, over 40 years ago-
our move cross country from childhood homes
 in New England to the West.

Starting our own family, building our home
- those busy years all behind us now.

The happy satisfaction of watching our children start lives of their own
and here we were on the dawn of our youngest son's wedding day.

Life had come full circle and I wanted to savor every moment.

As I gazed down at the swift water of the Cle Elum river,
I thought of my little boy - his chubby cheeks, the 'amazing' stories he would rush in to tell me as he discovered his world, dirty little dimpled fists clutching bouquets of wildflowers for me.

His mischievous ways and how he would always melt my heart
with his heartfelt and loving, 'I'm sorry, Mom'.

How could I stay angry?

And as he grew into a young man,
I watched his love of nature, sense of adventure,
generosity, and kind heart expand and grow.

We traveled the mine-field of adolescence together,
watched proud as he graduated and started his own company,
and found the love of his life.

And now, a new beginning and adventure awaits.

As I watch the gentle footsteps of the little deer below me,
I think of the gentle footsteps of the passing of time,
and how it sneaks up on you,
one footstep at a time.

Each step leading to the absolute now.
A journey of love.

Each day, a new beginning.
 Today a very special beginning.

So, with one last sip of our morning coffee,
we prepare for this special day.

The stage is set.....

Tables await....

Flowers ready to adorn and carry....

Place cards ready....

Tables numbered, centerpieces placed...

Menu's printed....

Wedding party dressed and ready to go...

The time is almost near.

The lovely bride arrives....

We are ready to take our seats.

The groom awaits...

The Bride is escorted by a proud Father.

A sudden gust of wind carries her veil,
providing a light-hearted moment through misty eyes.

But Dad is the hero with a quick retrieve
and all is well.....

With a sweet kiss, he gives her away....

Vows are spoken....

First kiss....

Man and wife....

We take our seats.

A beautiful setting with honey jar favors.

Sweet macaroons, too.

The Best Man toasts the happy couple...

The Matron of Honor takes her turn.

We toast, teary eyed as the Father of the Bride hugs his 'little girl' .

More tears as the Mother of the Bride speaks.

The Father of the Groom makes a toast...

'Don't forget to teach your children to sing and dance,

 and always laugh.'

Yes, he's as mischievous as he looks.....

Sister Jennie shares a laugh...

 with Sister Heather.

Heather's husband Eric joins in, too.

Siblings stand together.

The loves of my life....

The lovely bride thanks her guests through teary eyes.

I have a new daughter now! <3

The groom proposes a toast of his own.

The Best Man and sweet wife, Erica.

First dance.

The lovely Mother of the Bride looks on (far left).

Father/Daughter dance...

(They took lessons for weeks - the dance was wonderful)

Mother/Son dance...

(We laughed over our comparative lack of grace)

Cutting the cake -
sweet and polite tasting.

( I sewed the table covering )

Commemorative table honoring those attending in spirit...

My parent's wedding photo.

*Gracious hosts*
The Bride's Father and beautiful wife.
We thank you <3

Let the dancing begin!

And just like that, it was all over.

Congratulations to our dear newlyweds.

We wish you all the very best that life has to offer.

A life filled with love, joy and happiness.

We love you

xoxo

Thank you Dear Friends for sharing this very special time with me and my family.

It means so much to me.

'To have joy one must share it, -
Happiness was born a twin'
-Lord Byron-

I would like to give a special shout out to the wedding planner
Simply By Tamara Nicole

xoxo

Disclaimer: I would like to verify that I did not receive any compensation, discount, or any other special privileges for mentioning the resort, winery or wedding planner on this blog.

I simply had a wonderful time and offer this information to you for your own pleasure.

I receive no monetary or other income from this blog.
It is strictly a labor of love.
xoxo