it didn't really hit me until i was giving my sisters' speech. i got to the part about how my sister used to sneak into my gymnastics class and how i learned how to ride a bike when i saw her without her training wheels.. and totally lost it. i saw her as a little girl again, small and awkward, in a shirt that served as a dress because it was too big on her. and here she was in front of me, somehow all grown up, standing in this white dress (that fit this time) and beautiful, suddenly a beaming bride.
so here it is, our wedding poem (first names have been removed):
ODE TO STOUCHEL
Today we toast our middle sister
Ever the fearless one
We've been waiting for this day to arrive
And are delighted it has come
To someone with a lust for life
Who knows how to make a splash
Who leaves a lasting impression
On all who cross her path
Who makes her mark upon the world
With energy and laughter
We wish you all life's blessings
Both now and ever after
Time has given us a multitude
Of experiences tied to you
So we each have some words to share
We hope that it gets through
As the oldest I felt a strong desire
To protect and shelter you
But soon I found myself the follower
A step behind your shoes
You did cartwheels in gymnastics
When you snuck into my class
You weren't scared without your training wheels
Which helped me catch up fast
And despite your little size and frame
You stepped up in the court
You showed us that with confidence
We wouldn't come up short
R, we've come a long way since
Our days of dancing in backyards
Sparkly red, matching sweaters
And ballerina leotards
Now that we are older
Fights are something we outgrew
You're no longer just my sister
You're my confidante, too
As you continued blossoming
Into a woman strong and sure
It wasn't a surprise to us
When love came knocking on your door
In J, you've found a partner
Who is loyal through and through
He is goofy at the heart of it
Who can be silly-fun like you
He's a real-life Mr. Fix-It
Without asking for applause
He's like an honorary member
Of Best Buy’s geek squad
Even when it's limited, he gives time
To family and his friends
He kept searching through Dad's van
Until he found my contact lens
He is someone of great character
Who has faith and trusts God's plan
We know that you'll be blessed by Him
As you walk hand in hand
R and J, this was your journey
And we're glad you got it right
As you embark on new adventures
Remind yourselves of this sweet night
Now that you are newlyweds
You're together as one heart
We're so glad to share this moment
And your new life about to start
Today we toast the both of you
With love and our best wishes
You started out as friends, and now
You're a mister and a missus
Join us now, and raise your glasses
High up in the air --
To celebrate the bride and groom
To show them that we care
May you be each other's allies
May you treasure what is rare
May your loving arms be comfort
In times of hardship and despair
May you keep your sights together
And remember what you share
May we wish you many blessings
To a lucky, blissful pair
© glo & s
