Celebration. Joy. New Beginnings. On November 12th, my daughter Sarah married the love of her life, Alex. They met on a blind date after being introduced through family. Their 1st date was a baseball game – Atlanta Braves played the Washington Nationals in Washington D.C. The first date turned into a second date and they have been together ever since.
In addition to the fun, trials and tribulations of wedding planning, this time has been overflowing with joy and reflection. It has reminded me of the preciousness of life’s simple moments. We have shared stories of Sarah and Alex and found ourselves in awe of their adventures and joyful spirits. We have marveled about their insights into themselves and each other, and their zest navigating life. And, at the wedding, we celebrated the homecoming of family and friends through time and distance
What touched my heart most is when, in the midst of the activities, I felt the depth and breadth of the gifts that came to myself and Sarah, as mother and daughter. From the very beginning of Sarah coming into the world and my life, I know what it is like to love and be loved. Love, fully known, is with us. Every day since, I know how it feels to see the world through Sarah’s eyes and to share the world with her through my eyes. Through sharing, our worlds have greatly expanded. And, when Sarah was young, I held her close to comfort and guide her; and as she grew, I grew to listen as she learned to comfort herself and find and trust her own way into the unknown. Together, wisdom revealed herself to us.
On November 12th, Sarah and I got dressed just like we have done many times before. She zipped my dress. I zipped hers. We asked each other how we looked and if our hair was in place. Then, it was time for me to be seated in the church. As I walked out the door and turned to Sarah, I saw her beautiful, radiant, strong and ready for her next step. When our eyes met, we smiled, and at the same time we whispered to each other across the room, “I love you”.
Moments later, in one fell-swoop, or I should say, in the pronouncement of two “I do’s”, life beautifully expanded. My daughter is now a wife. I have a son. I have more family. And, I am still Mom.
Much love to you Sarah and Alex!
Mom
Discovery 
Love you mom!
What a beautiful memory you created!
How eloquent. It speaks for all us mothers who have raised our daughters and launched them on their own journeys in their adult lives. A very poignant moment………so many emotions that only a mother would understand. Thank you for putting it into such joyful words.