Empty Nesting: Caylen and Joe Get Hitched!

Last Saturday, November 12, was Caylen and Joe's wedding day. It was the most gorgeous day, in every way, from start to finish. The weather was perfect, sunny and about 50 degrees, with a bit of wind. The fall colors were out in full force which was a beautiful backdrop to the day.

The ceremony was at 1 pm at St. Clement's, which is Caylen and Joe's new parish (they bought a condo nearby) and also the church where Caylen was baptized. The church was packed and full of love. Christy rode down with Jack and me and we made sure to get there early so as not to miss a minute of it. Wayne and Julie met us there. Sally and Matt were not able to come to the ceremony because Sally's swim team was competing at sectionals.The ceremony was amazing. After the bridal party made its entrance, the doors at the back of the church were closed. I turned back to look and caught a glimpse of Chuck and Caylen through the windows in the closed doors. All that was visible was from the shoulders up and it was like something out of a movie...the beautiful music playing, Chuck and Caylen with their heads close together in a quiet moment and then the doors opened and there they were, father and daughter arm in arm. So tender. More touching than I even imagined it would be.

So beautiful

Keegan, Teri and Chas

Brittany and Grace with the best man, Dominick

After the ceremony, we chatted it up with the other wedding goers. It struck me how fortunate we are to know so many wonderful, caring people. Everyone was in such a good mood and we agreed it was so wonderful to be celebrating such a happy event.

Jack with Rob and Lisa

The reception did not start until 6 pm, so Jack, Christy, Wayne, Julie and I went to the Union League Club to get a bite of lunch. We ran into Rob and Lisa in the restaurant and they joined us at our table. I really enjoyed the conversation. My enjoyment of the conversation was enhanced by the fact that Sally taught Rob and Lisa's daughter last year and they had so many wonderful things to say about Sally. Loved it. Sally and Matt met up with us at the Club. The men walked over to the reception which was at the University Club and the girls cabbed it over (too hard to walk in the heels!). Everything at the reception was over the top incredible! We had such fun and danced like crazy. Teri said a beautiful grace and Chuck did a touching toast, as did the maids of honor, Brittany and Grace. Also, Chas made a very cool video that included interviews with the grandparents and parents of the bride and groom. It was a take off on "When Harry Met Sally" and so interesting to hear the advice and memories of those folks. That is something Caylen and Joe will treasure forever, along with memories of their wedding day.