This past weekend my sister became Mrs. Lauren Smallwood. (Don’t worry, she’s already worrying about how her kids will be made fun of too.)
Although the wedding was full of drama and mishaps, (aka: the photographer didn’t show up, the police did show up, the ceremony was only 2 minutes long and the other side of my new family watched us for hours as we set everything up), my sister did have a wonderful night. That’s all I can ask for: a happily married sister.
She’s already changed her name on Facebook to “Lauren Smallwood” and continually updates her status with “Hanging out with my husband” or “Movie night with my wonderful husband.” I still can’t believe she’s married and not sure it will ever sink in.
With all of this wedding talk though, my dreams have been effected. Just last night I dreamt I was getting married (GAH!). The part of the dream that sticks out the most was when I was walking down the aisle. I looked up to see Ryan as he looked at me. And then he threw up.
I must have looked really nice walking down the aisle…
Anyways, one of my duties as my sister’s Maid of Honor was to give a speech in honor of the newly married couple (as well as help her go to the bathroom in her GIANT dress; she couldn’t find her own two feet beneath that poof). For my own sake, I wanted to post my speech here:
I’ve been Lauren’s sister since I was born, (that’s how these things work), so I know a few things about her relationship with Jeremy that you may not know.
But first off before I may or may not say anything embarrassing, I want to say how thrilled I am to be here in Denver celebrating your marriage. It is such an exciting time in your life and I want to thank you both for inviting us all to be with you today.
It seems so long ago now that Lauren was visiting me at Ohio State University and we happened to hit the bars with my boyfriend Ryan and his roommate, Jeremy (or as I’ve always known him, Smallwood).
Ryan and I knew we were in trouble when they were making googley eyes at each other across the table and Smallwood insisted on walking us home. At the end of the night though, we all went our separate ways. However soon enough Lauren was visiting Ohio State for someone other than me; she was going to see Jeremy.
It was an instant attraction and I soon realized that this relationship was a good thing for both of them. The support they give each other is endless and they both can’t get enough of one another. How lucky that they were able to find each other by a mere coincidence.
Lauren and I may have grown up fighting over My Little Ponies and our favorite N’SYNC singer; (there was even this one time she tried kicking me so I grabbed her foot. She then thought it was a good idea to kick me with her other foot. I stood there holding both of her feet, while she face planted into the ground.) But regardless of our typical childhood quarrels, we have grown up to truly appreciate one another.
As Lauren’s sister I am so grateful to see her with someone who is her perfect match.
Lauren, it is a real honor to be your Maid of Honor and your sister; so thank you very much. You are an amazing woman.
Ladies and Gentlemen, please could you stand and raise your glasses for the “Bride and Groom”.
May the two of you always be as giddily in love as you were when you first met.
(toast)
