The other side of a wedding.

Now that the dust has settled, it is time for reflection. The highlight, of course, was the temple sealing. Surrounded by those who were there to show their love and support to Wendy and Dave was an amazing experience. Sacrifices were made by many in attendance to be there and share in what turned out to be one of the most memorable sealings I have attended. The temple sealer made us all feel at ease with his sense of humor and very eloquent advice. I remember he spoke of forgetting oneself and serving our partner no matter what challenges we may face or how we may look several years down the road, advice not only directed to Wendy and Dave, but to all of us in the room.

Taking Wendy through the temple was another highlight. As the first of my family in the celestial room, I waited with anticipation for their arrival. I just kept thinking, "This must be the closest I will feel to heaven when we can all meet together again." As Wendy joined us, my heart was full. What a great place to meet Dave's family!

The North Hampton house reception was truly beautiful. It was great to meet more of Dave's extended family, co-workers and friends of Dave and Wendy, and many of our Utah family and friends.

After all was safely set up and on it's way, I was finally able to take a breath at the Lund reception and enjoy greeting good friends. Friends who had been a part of our lives since we first moved to this little community when Wendy was just 2 years old.

Okay, now for some other reflections and hopefully learning experiences. . . Prepare for some ramblings and maybe a little irreverence.

. Make sure that you leave plenty of time to arrive at the temple. Think of anything that could possibly go wrong and multiply it 10x.

. Do not make a hair appointment an hour before you are to be at the temple. As Wendy was patiently getting her hair done and we were all feeling the pressure, I felt like the kid in the movie, Christmas Story, who after witnessing the famous tongue sticking to the pole and hearing the school bell ring. Felt compelled to leave his helpless friend, exclaiming, "But, the bell rang!"

. Ask for more help with setting up. At one point, I was just about ready to give up when some angels appeared (Sherry, the Bennetts) and gave me a huge boost. Don't anticipate that everyone will be available when you need them. Ask for more help period!

. Computers are not our friends. They have their own agenda.

. Food, food, and more food!

. More music and dancing. Party on!

. Slow down, take a deep breath, and enjoy every single moment.