Deviating a little from the norm of my posts, I am going to share something more personal with all of you; the most wonderful day. We had a blast this past weekend!

Hosted by my fiances’ sister, brother-in-law and family – friends and family alike gathered for a pre-wedding celebration enjoying great food in a beautiful backyard that was filled with all the comforts. There were so many happy faces and laughter the pictures turned out fabulous. I felt particularly happy that both Dean and I were surrounded by such fun and loving people.

It was clear that a lot of thought went into this event and everyone was made welcome. That can be tricky when some people have never met before, that melding of each others family and friends.

I knew our friends would make themselves known…with their great sense of humour, conversation and good nature. Dean and I have had a lot of good times with these people and may life allow us many more.

As I freeze framed key moments throughout the day and evening I felt so proud, especially with my dear friends whom I have grown up with. I feel alive when I am with them; these are the friends I have known through thick & thin, joy & sorrow.

They are the real deal!!

Family is important. Though it can be challenging to maintain relations with different lifestyles, personalities, life issues and much more when you come together in celebration the world gets a little smaller. On this day, my mind did not wonder. The focus remained squarely on the people that surrounded us, those that support our relationship. We don’t always get the chance to understand or to communicate how we truly feel about each other. Sometimes it is hard to know that so many hours, days or years have passed without a hug from those that have been with us from the beginning.

We grew – some noticed and some did not, we hurt and it may have been in the shadow of someone else’s pain, we laughed and shared it wholeheartedly, we conquered and they stood proud with us, we sang in the company of the best of souls, we are fortunate. With or without the eyes upon us our life is rich and full. These are the ties that bind us. On this day all that we are and all that we will be as family and friends was reflected in the moment. Uninterested in the past, hopeful for the future and present in the celebration that is love, life, family and friendship.

Cheers! – life is beautiful because you are in it. Thank you Debbie, Graham, all of you! The memories you created on this day and others will remain imprinted on our soul.

A true representation of depth and kindness is this cake. Debbie thought to have a cake that replicated our announcement, this really touched us greatly. Thanks.

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