It's a WEDDING!!

Much to post about since the arrival of CA/AZ family last Thursday night, but I'll break those down into separate posts - many pix, so I'll try to use fewer words, and let the photos speak for themselves :)

This post is dedicated to the Danubio/Nelson wedding held at Avondale Bible Church in Woodinville at 1pm on Saturday, October 9, 2010, for which I was the matron of honor.

We got lost getting to the home where the reception was held, owned by Dan's Uncle Casey and Aunt Jenny, but finally arrived about 12:20ish - the Bride was not dressed yet, so we visited a few minutes, then DH hauled the relatives to the church while Mel, Dollie and I finalized preps.  Got to the church at about 1:05, where the Bridal Party entry song had been played and sung by friend Melody Morgan for about 5 minutes, as she started a little early - but she's a pro, and she "winged" it until we could get down the aisle.

Wedding commenced without any significant hiccups - timing a little off in some parts, but hey, that's what happens with no rehearsal -- we were ALL winging it and still got those two crazy kids married off :)

Post ceremony, bride and groom whisked back to the house for wedding pictures, the rest of us following a few minutes later.  Even the drizzley day couldn't dampen the warmth and joy that practically seeped from the house and its celebrants :)  The decor and food were absolutely amazing -- Dan's family did the lion's share (ok, ALL) of the ceremony/reception prep, footing the bill and labor duties for everything - and still pulling it off on a budget!  It was simply gorgeous -- so many people donated time and effort and services, all out of love and joy for Dan and Mel :)  Dang, I want to be adopted by this family!  They are stupendous!!

Food was eaten, toasts were made, cake was cut and well-wishes were...wished :)  Then around 4pm, the newly minted Dan and Melody Nelson loaded up the car and headed to The Willows Lodge in Woodinville, WA to spend the first two nights of married life together.  We were on the road by 4:30 and home in time for DH to settle in and catch the Huskies loss to ASU.  All in all, an exhausting but exuberant day :)  And now, a pictorial tour of the Happy Occasion:

 (my adorable 2nd cousin Brianna in our kitchen before we left for the wedding)

 The scene above was the entryway of the house - Jenny & Dan had jarred homemade blackberry jam to give as gifts to guests!

 

Mel and her 17 year old stepson TJ, sharing a moment...

 Me and Brianna giggling!

  Brianna & her grandma Susie

 Mel and Oregon BFF Cami

 Friend and videographer Don Baunsgard and Mel's WA BFF Dollie

Newest member of our family, Bro-in-Law Dan!

The Long and Winding Toast, given by Best Man and Dan's BFF Corey

Dollie and her hubby Ron

Jenny & Casey's youngest daughter, enjoying the nap I was envying her!

Getting ready to head out...bye Cousins Pam & Brianna! 

 

Dan should print out this picture -- it's an expression he may see a lot!

A seldom seen scene, an in-law embrace :) 

Yes, that is a basket of goodies going to the hotel with the happy couple!

Annnnndddd, they're OFF!!  Well done day, Nelsons!! We are so proud of you both and happy to welcome Dan to our clan, small though it may be ~ now we're going to put in for adoption into his fabulous family - we gotta get somethin' outta this, too!