While we were waiting, Katelyn leaned over to me and told me how grateful she was for everything I’ve done to prepare and I thought she meant the wedding so I thanked her and she said, “Yeah, that, but also for all the things you did to prepare me for this moment and getting married.” That just made me so happy—what a sweet thing for her to say and I told her it makes a mom’s job so much easier when you have good kids who desire righteousness! What a sweet girl! We had fun getting ready and then it was time! I headed upstairs and got to speak with all the family that was there and friends! Beckie and Greg and Deana and Eric all came in later last night, so we got to see them and so many people were there to support! AND we had all 12 bridesmaids and only 1 groomsmen couldn’t make it! But it worked out perfectly because Melynda made an extra groom’s boutonnière, so we had two extras, so Luke and Logan got to wear those! Perfect!! They were so cute in their little suspenders! What a beautiful day and what a huge blessing to be sealed together in the temple for Katie and Kaden! The sealer was so wonderful—Brother McLellan. He started off by talking about how the sealing ordinance is evidence of our Heavenly Father’s love and compassion for His children. He then talked about each of the ordinances that lead up to the sealing ordinance. He quoted many prophets and apostles but the one I loved most that he shared was when Elder Holland, at his wife’s funeral, said that the most important day in their lives was the day that they were sealed. I remember him saying that and what a true statement that is! Everything for the rest of eternity hinges on that one ordinance/day! It put things into perspective for me! Katelyn was just beaming and brimming with joy and Kaden was super happy as well. They are such a cute couple and it will be so fun to get to know Kaden better! I’m happy and excited that he is part of our family now!
Pictures went well after the temple and I didn’t get to enjoy all of it because I really needed to get back since we were behind on things. The wind was not cooperating and Molly felt like it was best to wait to set things up. I am so glad I asked Allyson and Kim to come and help. Allyson got things prepped and it really took at least 2 people to arrange the huge greenery garland onto the tables, backdrops and signs and they both helped do that along with Deana, Beckie and Eric—they did the receiving line backdrop with the doors. Everything looked so good and it was finished with about 10 minutes to sit and eat before the actual reception started. Bill and I gulped down our food and it was time to stand in the receiving line…Alisa hit it out of the park with the food again—Café Rio style salads and a huge, yummy fruit platter. Bethany did a superb job on all the fresh flowers. They looked so beautiful—she really exceeded my expectations! A lot of people came from the Passey’s ward and stake out in Surprise and it was really well attended by people in our ward and stake, as well! It was such a fun party—the dance party started after the receiving line and we did the anniversary dance (which Bill and I won—partly because not very many couples were dancing) and then the shoe game, danced some more and then the cake cutting and danced some more. THEN… they both jumped into the pool from the jump wall. It was fun because the entire crowd of people there were counting down for them! They are so crazy! It was cold and there was a breeze and that water was NOT anywhere near close to warm. But they did it! They really took the plunge!!! They hurried and changed and got back out pretty quickly for one last song and then it was time for the send off with sparklers. It went SO FAST! We watched them drive away so happy and I had McKenzie help me remember to grab the food basket so they would have snacks and Martinelli’s and some leftovers of Alisa’s amazing food! I forgot completely about it with Megan and Brooke’s wedding and we had to meet and get it to them…. But THIS TIME, I was prepared and Mac was a great helper! It was just a beautiful day… I was able to relax once the party started and finally just be in the moment and enjoy all the atmosphere and dancing! I am so happy for Katie! She found such a good man and married into such a wonderful and amazing family. They are good people! I’m excited for their future and what it will bring. They are devoted and committed to each other and will to great things together!
