The trip had many facets (for some reason our trips are generally sprints from one activity to the next). We were blessed to be there for the wedding of Adam (Chris' brother) and Michelle. We introduced William to our extended clan members. Spent some time with family members that we, unfortunately, don't see often (even on trips). Visited with some much missed friends. Took some time out to visit a few of our favorite places. Made some wonderful family memories. AND celebrated Mother's day with some of the most wonderful mothers I have had the honor of knowing.
Honestly, there is no way I am able to fit all of that into one post... So we will start at the beginning with a McDonald wedding.
The drive down to Utah was terrible. One of THE WORST drives we have had. William and I weren't feeling well when we started off and it didn't end well. It was a very long and stressful week before, and the stress of a road trip must have tipped my body over the edge. Our usual 8~9 hour drive took us 16 hours. yup, you read correctly... 16 hours. The kids were troopers though. First road trip in the new van!
The first few days we were in Utah was spent in preparation for Adam and Michelle's wedding. The McDonald girls all went to help Michelle and her family make decorations, get flowers together, and meet and chat with each other. It was nice to get to meet some of Michelle's family and get a 'sneak peak' at some of the wedding things. It was also a nice break from six rowdy children. I am not sure what the guys did with the kids, but the house wasn't burned down when we got back, and nobody needed stitches. So it was successful all round.
It is such a blessing to add another member to our McDonald family wives club. I feel very blessed to add an additional friend and have an immediate feeling of family with every wedding Chris and I have had the privilege to attend. With every wedding I find that I look back at the other weddings and smile a little with fond memories and anticipation for the future. Sappy, I know, but I truly feel an instant family bonding (that feeling of being able to start a conversation right back up even if we haven't seen each other in years).
The next event was the Groom's dinner. Curtis had mentioned a few things about it in an email before we drove down. For some reason (undeserved in my opinion) Gram and Papa Mac feel that they are too boring. In an effort to dispel that feeling, Papa Mac decided that it was a good idea to step out of our 'comfort zone'. The dinner was really nice. There was a BYU theme, good food, much laughter, and a family atmosphere that couldn't be beat. For some reason Karaoke isn't as scary when you sing with little kids.
By the end of the night all of the adults were dead on their feet, and all of the little ones were ready for round two. Story time and cuddles were required.
Seeing Adam and Michelle come out the doors was such a happy moment. We didn't stay outside long (it was windy and little William was too small to stay long outside), but we were able to get a few pictures taken and congratulate the new bride and groom before heading down to the reception.
When we arrived at the reception (late as usual, then we couldn't find it) we met up with a few more long lost relatives in the parking lot. It is almost a guilty feeling for me when I meet up with someone that I have meant to call or write to (generally keep in better touch with) and haven't. The reception was beautiful. The bride and groom were beaming. Family was everywhere and all was right with the world for a few brief moments. I cherish moments like that. Being with family always gives me the sense of safety. Adding to family makes our little world that much brighter, safer.... happier. I wish nothing but the best for the beautiful couple. Hopefully we will get together again sooner rather than later.
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