Weddings and everything that goes with...

Joyce, my nieces, and I drove down to Missouri for my cousin's wedding. It was emotionally charged as I had not seen any one from my dad's side in 25 yrs. Joyce had seen Grandma a few years back and had her feelings hurt. I also did not have the fondest memories of her growing up. Before I go any further, I should say that that has changed.We showed up early and visited with Crystal while she got ready. I'm sure it was awkward for her as well. Not only had we not seen her since she was two, but she was nervous about the wedding. My nieces did get to help the wedding party with their make-up.

The mother of the bride standing in blue

 the father of the bride, love the hat Uncle Tom

 Uncle Mike, some of the ladies in front were Grandma's sisters

 bridesmaides

 Grandma Deloris Damewood

 Mother of the bride and groom

 can you see the groom on the right?

 trying to get drinks served, it was a hot day

I have to admit, I did have a melt down at one point and had to go and collect myself. Grandma recognized me right away and hugged me, I'm not sure if Joyce got upset. We are both very sensitive and it doesn't take much for us to feel rejected. That comes with having an absent father. You might note that he is not in any of the above pics as he did not come. His mother is the only one who has been able to maintain a relationship with him. Joyce was not thrilled with being introduced as Donnie's girls, to her it seemed too impersonal. 

We did enjoy our visit we stayed with Tom and Shirley after the clean-up that felt like it would never end.* Mike and Grandma came to lunch the next day. I will have to make an effort to keep in touch. Especially with so many not doing the best. 

* Note to self plan a clean-up crew with muscles when planning for a wedding. Take home containers for all the leftovers are also helpful. Who drops off a cake and doesn't leave a box to take it home.