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Current mood:  blessed
I guess I should start off by saying:
Gina is one of the most amazing people I've had the opportunity to know in this crazy journey. She's kind, has a huge heart, is always up for anything fun, and she has always been there for me when I needed her. She's one of my best friends and I would do anything for her. Joe, Gina's husband, compliments her to a 't'. He has a smile on his face every time I see him, and he has a way of making you laugh out loud even if you don't want to. I felt so honored to be in her wedding, and then to be a bridesmaid...I didn't know what to say.
As I was standing with the other girls, I thought about all the crazy good times I've had with her. All the talks we've had. All the secrets we've shared. I was realizing how important she was to me. And then I looked at Joe and thought of how perfect he was for her and how happy they're going to be. And then thought...if he does something, I'll kick him where it hurts! I'm pretty sure I thought all of that within a few seconds.
But as the church doors opened, and she was standing there staring at the man she loved, I couldn't help but cry. The sparkle that was in her eye was undeniable. She never took her eyes off him. Not once. That in itself was amazing. And the fact that these two phenomenal people found each other...was breathtaking.
After a couple tears, some wedding photos, and numb feet, we were off to the reception. And that's where the party started. Actually, no, it started on the bus. THAT'S where it started. Anyway, it was beautiful. Tons of friends and family, great dinner, and "clinking of glasses". But, you know Gina, she likes things different, instead of 'clinking', the whole table had to stand up and sing a love song! You guys know how that went. Lots of singing. I sang Gina and Joe's first dance. No pressure right!?! I sang a version of I Wanna Hold Your Hand, and they were in their own little world. Gliding across the floor like they were the only ones there. And to them, they were. Gina danced with her father to My Girl, sang by Jay and Sharlotte (one of the backrounds on AI). Then Gina got up and sang I Hope You Dance for Joe and his mom. I cried...again. I missed hearing her sing.
After dinner, some toasts, and a very entertaining slideshow. The wedding was over and the New Years party started. It was a blast! Joe's band Then Again played. Everyone was on the dance floor within seconds! It continued like that until it was time to countdown. Then...BAM!!!! It was 2009.
The day started at 8:30 am and didn't stop until 2 am today! I spent the night ringing in the new year with some friends I loved and and my mama. In freezing Chicago. That's love. What better way to spend New Years Eve than with loved ones though, right?
I realized what was really important. I know I've talked about this more than a dozen times, but what's one more? I'm so happy I have a roof over my head, a family that loves me, friends that love me and a God who's love is never failing. So, to 2009, I say I welcome you with open arms. If those things are all I have this next year...I'll be happy. Everything else is a bonus.
So, here's to you, Gina and Joe. Always. I love you.
PS
Gina sang this song, and I found it true for this new year and new beginnings. :)
I Hope You Dance-Lee Ann Womack
I hope you never lose your sense of wonder
You get your fill to eat
But always keep that hunger
May you never take one single breath for granted
God forbid love ever leave you empty handed
I hope you still feel small
When you stand by the ocean
Whenever one door closes, I hope one more opens
Promise me you'll give faith a fighting chance
And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance
I hope you dance
I hope you dance
I hope you never fear those mountains in the distance
Never settle for the path of least resistance
Living might mean taking chances
But they're worth taking
Lovin' might be a mistake
But it's worth making
Don't let some hell bent heart
Leave you bitter
When you come close to selling out
Reconsider
Give the heavens above
More than just a passing glance
And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance
I hope you dance
(Time is a real and constant motion always)
I hope you dance
(Rolling us along)
I hope you dance
(Tell me who)
I hope you dance
(Wants to look back on their youth and wonder)
(Where those years have gone)
I hope you still feel small
When you stand by the ocean
Whenever one door closes, I hope one more opens
Promise me you'll give faith a fighting chance
And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance
Dance
I hope you dance
I hope you dance
(Time is a real and constant motion always)
I hope you dance
(Rolling us along)
I hope you dance
(Tell me who)
(Wants to look back on their youth and wonder)
I hope you dance
(Where those years have gone)
(Tell me who)
I hope you dance
(Wants to look back on their youth and wonder)
(Where those years have gone)
♥
7:48 AM
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