The runaway groom & six rules to a great relationship

Weddings are often filled with special ceremony and sweet soft words. But don't you just love a wedding that gives you a refreshing bit of unexpected humor!    Last Friday we attended the wedding of some long time friends for an evening ceremony on The Woodlands lawn.  7pm was a perfectly lovely time of night and everything went as expected until they got to the 'do you give this ring?' part.

You know the part. . . So the best man started fishing in his pockets but Teddy, the groom, didn't hesitate.  He shot off at full sprint, tux and all, across the bridge and commandeered that ring and ran back to the alter fast as light and before we could all finish the joy of a good belly laugh.  Everyone hooted and cheered like it was a great race.  His bride's eyes twinkled as she smiled in her own beautiful and peaceful way and I was stuck by what just took place.  It was actually of a insightful commentary on the philosophy of relationships themselves.  

1. Act immediately when it comes to being there for your partner.

2. Build a great group of people behind your relationship willing to cheer you on!

3. Find the humor and you will find the joy.
4. Allow your man to be your hero.   

5. Show your appreciation.

6. Love unconditionally.

The last one you hear a lot but might not see as often.  What I saw was Jody, a relaxed bride, not judging anyone for an oversight, not frustrated that the ceremony wasn't perfect.  She was gracefully and lovingly there in the moment, smiling. She even gave him a sweet thank you kiss upon his return like he had won the gold just for her. And essentially he had.

So no, the post isn't what you thought it might be when you clicked on the title Runaway Groom. ;) It was something much better.

Congratulations Teddy and Jody and Megan too!

Photo by Marcy Shepherd Surber

Honoring each deliberate step down the aisle.

Tonight's June wedding wrapped up early, leaving time for me to take an evening stroll after getting the chick-lets (my girls) and the chickens (our hens) all settled in.   I walked the winding path through the trees and paused under the bridge alight with twinkle lights.  The birds were coming alive with inspired song around me, I was stuck with how blessed I am to be a guest in such a beautiful corner of the world such as this.  Even more profound is the feeling of being part of something so much bigger than me.

I walked the path of the left over petals from the ceremony earlier today and imagined all the people that have walked each deliberate step down their aisles, to arrive at their love, their husband, the father of their future children and the grandfather of their grandchildren.  So many beginnings happen on these blades of grass.  So many intentions set by people with love in their hearts and commitments solid in mind.  So many webs of support have been woven from all the guests that attend and honor these milestone moments.

I stood  between the cherry trees this evening and I got a chance to imagine them all as I drank in the fragrance of the cherry blossoms.  The setting sun's light cast a soft glow across the canyon hillside and the rush and tumble of the creek just scented the air with the ebb and flow of spring.   As many times as brides, grooms, and families have thanked me for being at The Woodlands, today I felt an answering gratitude for all the people who have chosen to be here.  I am so grateful for all those who helped build the layers of new beginnings here.  Each couple, each exchange of vows, each wedding celebration is what makes the magic of this place deeper and so much more meaningful in the history of love.

Jennie Lynn Photo captured this timeless moment.