Happy Valentine's Day, girls! Chris and I already exchanged presents: I commissioned his cousin (who is an extremely talented artist) to paint a picture of us as ponies. (We call each other "pony." I know, it's weird.) He gave me my third pandora bracelet with a clip on it. Yes, I have a problem. I'm also cooking dinner for him tonight, and I am going to make the Le Cellier beer cheese soup! Cross your fingers that it comes out okay.
Just a note: the first part of this report is very difficult for me to write this morning. I had my first real meltdown since the funeral last night--- but I really want to tell my story.
Wedding Day, Part 6
Reverend Jack asked who was giving me away, and my dad said he was. I think I'm laughing because the feminist side of me HATES the term "giving away."
Then my dad kissed me goodbye.
It was just Chris and I up there now. Reverend Jack told us where to stand: I suppose this part would have been smoother had we done a rehearsal, but I am still glad that I did not waste precious park time on a rehearsal.
I said "Hi," to Chris in a small voice.
We chose the non-religious ceremony from Reverend Jack. In it, he begins with the definition of love and an abridged version of 1 Corinthians. It's a lovely, yet short and sweet, ceremony. We listened attentively, but I really don't think either of us really HEARD him: I think we were both too nervous.
(I love this picture of Lacy taking a picture.)
Before I knew it, it was time for us to read our vows to one another.
Jackie, I love you. You're sweet, you're caring, you're fun, and you make me laugh in a way no one else ever has. We've been together for seven years, but somehow that's not enough. I want to spend every day of the rest of my life with you, even though I know that still won't be enough. I promise to always be there for you, no matter what. I love you.
He hand wrote them the night before (of course! He claims that had "been his plan all along"), but I love them. I especially love that he cried as he read them.
Richelle handed me my vows (I don't remember where she had them. Maybe in her chest? I don't know!)
I know I've already posted these here, but I'll post them again, just for story's sake.
Over the last six years, Ive known you as my best friend, my boyfriend, Smokeys daddy, and my fiancée, and now I eagerly look forward to knowing you as my husband. Im so proud of the man you have become. I dont remember what my life was like before you were in it, and I never want to know what my life is like without you. You are my life now. While I cant promise you I wont still be stubborn, that I wont hold silly grudges, and that I wont stop yelling at you for leaving your soldiers all over our tiny apartment; I can promise you that I will be yours without ceasing. Youre my past, present, and future, my family, and everything that I need. I vow to love you to the moon and back.
(On a side note, my grandmother--- who was sitting in the front row--- complained the day after because she "couldn't hear my vows." Apparently, I was speaking very softly, which is unlike me. Being a teacher, I am quite good at projecting!)
I gave them back to Richelle, and we shared a smile because we both knew what was coming next: but no one else did!
Reverend Jack winked at me, then asked Luis, the best man, for the rings. He said, simply, "I don't have the rings." I heard my Aunt Margie say "They don't have the rings?!?!?" Becky looked as if she was going to have a nervous breakdown and collapse right then and there, and Richelle put on a
very good shocked face. My dad started feeling around in his pockets to see if HE had them.
But then, I heard "When You Wish Upon a Star" being played by the guitarist...
All of our guests collectively gasped, then clapped.
He gave us a formal bow, then handed us the rings.
(I really wish they let us keep the slipper though! They should for the price...)
I also need to say that Chris apparently chose the smartest best man on the face of the planet: the night before, Luis had asked Chris where the rings were so that he could have them. Chris told Luis "not to worry about it." Luis asked a few MORE times, but Chris kept brushing it off. Unfortunately, Luis wasn't shocked: but everyone else was!
Chris placed my ring on my finger; and with that ring, I was wedded.
I did the same for Chris.
Our rings were on, and we were just about to be announced as husband and wife. You can see the excitement on both Richelle's and my dad's faces.
And now... you make kiss the bride!
I let out a tiny squeal:
We were presented as Mr. and Mrs. Dunn. My dad let out a "WOOHOOO!!!!!" and everyone else followed suit. We were married!!!!
Can't wait to read more!
Stay tuned for more!
I finally am all caught up and able to respond to just one update and this is how it ends???? What??? 
I am a total klutz too, so totally understand. 
We will definitely adopt you and Chris!! We would need a Dooney room!! 
