I Do ... Again!

Perryville, Missouri. Quintessential small town America. Estimated population 8,172. Other than being the seat of Perry County and boasting a handful of wineries, the 7.7 square acres that encompass the city have no real claim to fame. But when it is home to one particular young man to whom your niece is about to marry—this time in the presence of family and friends—you have no qualms about jumping in the car and heading south to lands unknown and undistinguished.

Jeremy and Jessica have your traditional boy-meets-girl love story, with a twist. A chance encounter during spring break evolved from a budding romance into full-fledged adoration and plans to wed. When Jess enlisted in the Coast Guard, however, a quickie civil ceremony was in order, as was the promise of a more formal celebration down the road. That day had finally arrived and we were Perryville bound to join family for the festivities.

It’s a good thing Catholic Masses last (way) longer than ten minutes. Since we were utilizing hotel points for freebie stays during this road trip, and because Perryville is home to neither Marriott nor Hilton properties, we spent the night across the river in Cardondale, Illinois. We figured we could easily make the one-hour commute the next day. Unfortunately, floodwaters covered our route into Missouri and dictated more detours. We slid into the back pew ten minutes after the ceremony had begun.

It was lovely, with Jeremy’s uncle—and godfather!—officiating.

Kelli, another niece, was Maid of Honor.

Also in attendance were four of Mark’s sisters

Debbie, Teresa, Julie, Amy

and five of his other nieces … and a token nephew!

Kelli, Christina, Lisa, Jessica, Copeland, Alison, Stephanie

I look at them and wonder … when in the heck did they all grow up??? Our goddaughter, Christina, was born on the day Mark proposed to me.

Now? She and many of her cousins are married with children of their own, two of whom were THE cutest flower girls evah!

Bailey and Kaelyn

Things of course got turned up a notch once we were at the reception and the alcohol was freely flowing.  We managed to get Mark onto the dance floor for a spin with the lovely bride

and for the last dance of the night. Who knew Stairway to Heaven was such a long song?!?!? He he he ...  (One of THE greatest songs of all time and one which we played at OUR wedding nearly 25 years ago! Rock on!)

It was great to catch up with Mark’s family and I’m so glad we had a chance to celebrate with them.

Congrats, Jessica and Jeremy! Blessings and love!