It Is Over

A weekend anticipated by many, the party is over.  Kelly with latte in hand is retrieving me from my hotel shortly and taking me to the airport.  Elaine left bright and early yesterday morning. 

Yesterday too started with Kelly picking me up, we drove to the Marriott Hotel downtown where she was hosting a brunch for the out of town guests, many of which were heading back to Chicago (Bride and Groom live in Chicago). 

Yesterday ended with a pizza party around the pool at Kelly and Tom’s.  It has been wonderful to once again spend time with the family and friends of Kelly and Tom whom I’ve met in the past and to meet new ones.  It was wonderful to finally meet Ryan and to spend time with his bride Alison. 

And now for the bad news—not one bride photo I took turned out—I have “friended” Alison on Facebook so hopefully soon I will post photos of her.  The wedding held in a gorgeous, old Episcopal church in downtown Kansas City was one of the most special I’ve ever attended.  Tears, smiles, laughter, beautiful children performing their duties (grandchildren were flower girls and ring bearer) with aplomb—as the children were going back up the aisle post wedding, they were giving everyone a thumbs up and Philip was waving to everyone—precious!

The reception was held in a one time theater in downtown.  The row seating of this majestic building has been removed and tables for dining had been placed on the tiers.  The lighting and sound system is still there, the stage provided a venue for the toasts, speeches and the most spectacular event at a wedding I’ve ever attended—the bride sang a short opera—you see Alison is a opera singer—she has a voice bigger than big.  There was not a dry eye in the house when she was given a standing ovation!!! 

Me, Trese, Kelly and Elaine Kelly’s friend Joy on the left, Elaine, Kelly’s Dad John, and me.

I’m sad the weekend is over but I’m also ready to go home, I miss Michael and Emmi.