June 12, 2010

It's wedding day. Let's break it down, Colleen and Chris style.

Chris was awakened early Saturday by a downpour outside the hotel and feared rain would hinder the day. Fortunately the rain was gone by 9 a.m. or so. Chris, who probably should have brought a coat but really hates wearing coats, got dressed and walked down to the lobby. Of course, he ran into Colleen, who was on her way to the chapel. You can't make this stuff up. Chris greeted Colleen with a smile and hello and realized how happy he was to be invited. Chris' breakfast was Starbucks coffee and a pack of nabs crackers. Not very inspiring.

Chris then headed to the chapel and was excited to see Lisa and Dan when they arrived. Chris made the comparison that Lisa and Dan were doing the "Indy 500 followed by the Charlotte NASCAR race" daily double since they had another wedding in North Carolina that night. We made our way in, enjoyed the fact that tiny checkered flags would be used instead of bubbles/rice to toast the couple, and Chris caught up with Lisa Plus and Dan Plus. Jon eventually made his way in, with Colleen coming up the aisle shortly thereafter, and it was on.

Colleen and Jon read their own vows, and Colleen's dad performed a great solo. It was, as the pastor observed, one of the most organized weddings in the history of weddings. The ceremony came to a close outside with the taking of photos, and it was off to the reception, where Colleen told the gathered masses that they "made the cut" to be invited. That made Chris feel cool. The reception was NASCAR themed, so Chris had the joy of bringing home some Jeff Gordon memorabilia. Lisa and Dan had to take off before lunch, so hugs and handshakes were shared -- what good friends they are to go through that effort. Chris watched the "first dance," consumed a delicious steak, then decided that with a six-hour drive looming he should head out. A hug was shared with the new bride.

Chris had a peaceful drive home, save for a torrential downpour on I-83 at about 7 p.m. He trusts that Colleen and Jon are having a great honeymoon. In an obvious ruling, the wedding gets 10 Reese's Cups out of 10 (Colleen had earlier suggested that the ceremony receive a perfect score, but she didn't have to). A good time was had by all. -- POSTED BY CHRIS