My sister and Mom hosted a co-ed wedding shower for AJB and I today. It was lovely. My Mom spent the last month cleaning her yard and house, getting it ready and decorating it to a tee. My sister coordinated, brainstormed, had it catered, sent the invites, helped decorate and was an all around delightful hostess. In the mix, my sister-in-law was my sister’s right hand woman. My aunt Carol busted ass with my Mom to get the house ready. It was an all together amazing feat and they all did such a wonderful job. It was just great.

It was better than I hoped and better than I feel I deserve. It’s like, wow, all this for me and AJB? I can’t tell you how special we felt. We got a good turn out and even though some people didn’t show up (even though they said they would and didn’t even call to cancel) we were surrounded by people we love.

The biggest bummer of the day was that AJB’s kids couldn’t make it. I suppose I shouldn’t get into WHY they weren’t there. It’s not important, but I hope they know how much we missed them today. We really did.

Aside from the absent kids, it was just a spectacular day that went by entirely too fast. Mom had the yard just perfect with cafe lights and a white canopy. Every nook and cranny was clean and organized and filled with something – a plant or yard ornament. And it all looked so pretty.

I’m really bummed that I didn’t have a camera to capture moments or the decor, but it’s my fault – I should have planned ahead instead of expecting someone else to do it – it’s never a good idea to assume anything anyway. Luckily, AJB’s cousin Mike had a camera and took some fantastic photos of the day. Click here.

Did I mention we got presents?? Yeah, we totally did. Lots of presents! It was like frickin’ Christmas! Actually, I didn’t expect gifts at all. I was just happy people showed up. The best part about the gifts was that everyone was so thoughtful. Not one lame gift in the bunch. People even decorated or wrapped the gifts in Halloween themed wrapping. Wow.

I really am overwhelmed. In fact, I’m finding it hard to describe how I feel. I feel loved, that’s all. I’ve always known this, but AJB and I are surrounded by some pretty phenomenal people; really amazing people. Today, it was just so apparent. We have great family and great friends.

I know I’m leaving out details, I’m writing less than eloquently, and being extra girly. It’s after 1am and I’m exhausted. Happy and exhausted.

To everyone that helped pull this off and to everyone that attended, from the bottom of our hearts, we thank you.