They're Hitched

The deed is done! Paul and Michelle are now officially Mr. and Mrs. Schirmacher. Yippee!!! I'm ecited to have a sister in-law on my side of the family! The wedding went well. The bride was so beautiful, and the groom was very handsome. I, of course, have to say that my children were gorgeous! Spencer looked very dapper in his 5-piece suite, complete with purple tie (the wedding colors were purple, green and yellow). Marina and Alyssa were pretty as princesses in their white dresses with purple sashes/petals in the skirt and jackets. Marina looked lovely with her floral hair wreath on. Alyssa flatly refused to wear hers. No problem, we improvised by tying purple ribbon bows in her hair.
Alyssa was a mommy's girl yesterday. I even had to walk down the isle with her because she wouldn't let go of my hand. For such an incredibly independent little girl she sure picks her moments to be clingy!
Marina is growing up so quickly. She was just beautiful in her dress and did a wonderful job of spreading her flower petals down the isle. Before and after the ceremony she was attached at the hip to her cousin (ok really, my cousins kid) Melissa. They're so cute!
Spencer took his responsibility as Ring Bearer VERY seriously. He walked carefully, held the pillow with the rings carefully, his face was serene. He sat down next to my mom and paid close attention to the ceremony until it was time for him to take up the rings. He carefully walked up to Paul and stood still as a statue as the couple untied their rings and put them on each other's hands. He then walked solemly back to his seat and remained still until the ceremony was over. I was so proud of him. As soon as the ceremony was over all bets were off, he was off and running just like any other 4 year-old.
It was great to see so many people from the ward I grew up in. I enjoyed chatting and reminising with them. I was sorry that I didn't have more time to spend chatting with my family that came. I was chasing my kids all over the place (and my body is paying for it now). I hope my family knows how much I love them!
In the morning I went to the ward building to help dip strawberries (my mother had volunteered to take charge of the refreshments). All of the REALLY big strawberries were set aside and double or triple dipped and then deliciously consumed by the "kitchen help." Now we're all strawberried out.

Of course going through this wedding makes me remember my own wonderful wedding nearly 10 years ago. Everything was beautiful. The food (banquet), the music (Mariachi band), the weather (two days after the tornado the weather was picture perfect). The temple was amazing. Jeramie looked amazing. Even I looked amazing (one is allowed to say that about one's own wedding day). Here's a shout out to my mom and dad - THANK YOU FOR MAKING MY WEDDING DAY WONDERFUL!!!

Enough rambling. This funny girl needs to find some food to eat. I'm starving. And please - no strawberries!