What a day that was. It marked a day of celebration, love, kindness and so many other things. But before I tell you exactly what went on that day, let me share with you how it all came about.
Two people met. Now they had seen each other around, after all he was a bartender, she was working and going out with friends. He had seen her in Oxford’s a few times. He had noticed her, she had noticed him. But, you know how it goes, they would say hi, how are you?, and that would be about it. Until the night that he was outside having a smoke, and her sister just happened to be outside along with her! He looked at the sister and told her, you know, I’d really like to get to know you’re sister better.
Let’s give them names at this point to make it a little easier, he would be Dave, she would be Denise, and the sister would be Susan!
So, like I was saying, Dave told Susan that he liked Denise and would like to get to know her better. Denise was standing close by and said well, you could just say it to me. The rest, as they say, is history.
Dave did ask Denise for a date, they went, enjoyed each others company, Then came the evening
that I finally got to meet Dave. I’d heard so much about him and all good stuff, too. Don’t you know, Denise picked the evening that I was having a psychic development class. I had about 6 people in the class, so when Denise and Dave walked in, not only did the poor guy have to meet Mom, but also the class. Dave took it well, though. After they had left, I looked at everyone and said, he’s going to be my son-in-law.
Let’s go forward to the day Dave called me. He asked for my blessing to ask for my daughter’s hand in marriage. I broke down and cried with tears of joy. And I respected Dave for that phone call. It surprised the heck out of me, but it made me very happy. Dave had also called her dad and had done the same thing.
Then we got the phone call!! Denise is laughing and crying at the same time, saying they were engaged! When I told her Dave had called me, she said that she figures she was the only one that didn’t know. He had taken her to Oxfords that night, so half the bar knew what was going to happen! 
Then they set the date-May 24, 2008. Ahh, the preparations start, the dresses, the flowers, the wedding party, the reception place, etc.
Denise and Dave did all the planning, and I have to tell you, they did a wonderful job.
The wedding and reception was at The Carriage House in Gates. It’s a beautiful place inside and out.
Thursday, May 22, the rehearsal-it was the you sit here, you walk there, no not like that, go there, etc. when we all thought we knew, the wedding planner said let’s try it just one more time-and she told us, when you see me nod-just do what I said. We all decided that when she nodded, we’d probably all take off!
Friday, May 23, the rehearsal picnic-yes, a picnic. It was a super idea-we all relaxed and ate and drank! And the best part, Denise and Dave brought their dog Asia!
Friday night, my turn to have my daughter one last time (it had been her dad’s turn the night before). I got a little extra-Nicki and Jen slept over as well as Denise. About midnight we had a toast to Denise-coffee and Godiva chocolate liqueur. Hmmmmmm, that warmed us up for sleep.
Saturday, May 24, 2008. Girls, it’s 7am, time to wake up. Denise-wake me up in 5 more minutes-now where have I heard that before? From that same bed over the last 26 years!!!
We get up, get our stuff together, and trek over to her Dad’s house. Dennis and I have been divorced for a number of years, but he was gracious enough to open up his house to me for this event.
Denise’s friend who is also a hair dresser, did our hair, and Denise had to do my make up-I’m not known for doing my make up too well. Finally Denise’s turn to get her hair done. My little girl looks like a princess.
Finally off to The Carriage House-We all arrive in separate cars. Denise is still getting ready-she looks so beautiful! Everyone is fussing over her. She’s my baby though, and she’s taking it like a trooper-are you nervous? No, just excited!
We finally are asked to take our places-it starts, Here comes the bride-Oh God, my little girl, a woman now and in just a few moments, a wife. Her dad proudly helps her down the aisle. Denise and Dave only have eyes for each other, they look lovingly into each others eyes and the ceremony begins.
Halfway through the ceremony, I just happened to look over, past where the bridal party ends. To my delight, standing there, all proud, are the spirits, of my Nannie, Gramps, Gram, Grandpa Noga, Grandpa Vince, Uncle Paul, Aunt Edie, and Uncle Pete, just to name a few. Nannie just looked over at me and smiled and said-did you think we would miss this?
May I now present you with Mr. and Mrs. David Hill. My daughter and son-in-law. How happy and beautiful they look. I’m just so happy for them and filled with love.
And let the party begin!!
The wedding dance-one dedicated to Denise from Dave, and one dedicated to Dave from Denise.
My daughter, who does not cry, has tears of love and joy running down her cheeks. It was such a beautiful moment. I won’t tell you the rest of that story, but if you see Denise, ask her about reading lips.
Everyone was dancing, eating, drinking, and just having a good time.
When I finally left, Denise and Dave were still dancing the night away.
It was a day to remember-2 people joined together with a love so great.
To Denise and Dave, bless you both, and may love and happiness always be with you.
I love you both (and Asia, too-after all, she’s my Granddog)
Till next time.