Happy Anniversary #1

Today is our 11th Anniversary. I can't believe that we have been married that long. It seem just like yesterday that we got hitched. Well--I thought I would share our wedding story so here goes.

When I got up in the morning my mom had the bathtub all drawn with rose pedals in it. I took a nice long, relaxing bath. Then it was off to have my hair done. I went over to Marty's and can I just say that she did an amazing job?! I came home and my dad and brother were loading stuff into the truck. My dad told me to hop in because we were moving all my stuff to the apartment--now. I was kind of freaking out because I had just had my hair done and HELLO--it was August for heaven's sake. It was quite hot already and I didn't need to be sweating but my dad is very headstrong and so off we went. Then it was over to the church where my mom, several of my aunt's and several of my mom's friends were preparing for the luncheon. I helped a little but for the most part I just hung out (and rested after moving). Man did the the time fly that day because before I knew it, it was time to get my dress on. My mom helped me get ready and that was really special to have her there with me. Then it was time for my dad to walk me down the aisle. I was very emotional (wow--big surprise) especially when I saw Matt waiting for me. I remember that he looked so handsome and I was so happy to be marrying him. We had my bishop, Bishop Hansen perform the ceremony. He did such a great job. He kept it short and sweet--just like I wanted. Then it was time to let everyone hug and kiss (eeeewwww) and congratulate us. My Aunt Diane had this luncheon all planed out for after the ceremony. Let me just tell you--the ladies that helped and made food did such a great job. The food was delish! My Uncle Johnny commented that this was the best wedding he had ever been too--all you can eat buffet the night before and then all you can eat luncheon. He was in heaven (love and miss you Johnny!) I don't think that Matt or I really ate too much because of all the people trying to talk to us but we did get a little snack or too. My Aunt Diane made this really pretty, small wedding cake just for the luncheon and that was fun. Everyone had champagne glasses and my aunt had bought cherry 7-UP and wrapped the liter bottles in really pretty cellophane and we had a few toasts. Everything just turned out so perfect! I couldn't have asked for more!

Before I knew it, it was time to head off to the reception center. We had the reception at the Old Meeting House. When we got there it was time to do pictures. That always takes a while but I was very pleased with all of the AMAZING pictures that John Fackrell took. Our reception lasted from 6-8 and then we had dancing. I danced the first dance with Matt to the song "I Finally Found Someone"--by: Bryan Adams and Barbara Streisand. Then I danced with my dad to "Butterfly Kisses". Boy was that tough. I cried and cried and cried. My dad had a lot of sweet things to say during that dance which made me all the more emotional. Then it was time to boogie! We had THE MOST FUN ever!! Everyone that came to our wedding loved it. Matt's mom's family were all teasing us before the wedding that they were just thrilled to be coming to a typical "Mormon" wedding with punch and cookies. Boy were they surprised! They all still tell me that I had the best wedding they have ever been to! That is quite a complement coming from them.

The time arrived when it was time for us to be off to our hotel. We said our goodbyes and got into the car. We were staying at the Courtyard Marriott (courtesy of Grant Corser--thanks for the great gift). We started uptown and we both realized that we were starving! We stopped at Dee's and ate a quick meal and then went to the hotel. Then you know what happens next--no details sorry!

I am so happy to be married to my best friend. I love Matt with all of my heart. I am so grateful that he puts up with me. He has given me 3 beautiful children and a wonderful life. I love you Matt!