*Sigh of relief* – I’m back!

What a crazy three weeks… I made it to Michigan for my bff Ambyr’s wedding, which required me to fly for the first time, I hit the ground running. Fittings, dinners, nail appointments, shopping, you name it. I fell into bed exhausted, pretty much every night. Then came the rehearsal… Mother Superior, from the Renaissance Festival was the officiant. All the family and attendees made it, almost on time We practiced at the actual ceremony site, outdoors – under a huge oak tree. We hurried through as the sun was setting and Ambyr’s future husband and most of his family has a rare type of nightblindness, and – we were all ready for the dinner at Mongolian BBQ. At that time, the only ones feasting were the mosquitos. They were out in full force – and, two weeks later – I still have the bumps to prove it…

The next day started early and soon filled with a flurry of activity. We spent the night at Ambyr’s Mom’s house in Lake Orion, MI. Woke up to a banana pancake breakfast prepared by her Dad. Cousin Wendy started doing hair at 10 a.m., the ceremony wasn’t until 5:30. Two Junior Bridesmaids, Two Bridesmaids, A Goddess of Honor (moi), Mother of the Bride and finally it was Ambyr’s turn. Between makeup and hair – Ams looked like an old Hollywood movie star. Porcelain skin, dramatic faux eyelashes, and makeup that mere mortals like us try and emulate – often unsuccessfully – and, she was ready for the dress.

It took about three of us to get her in, fastened and zipped. It was truly a scene out of my big fat greek wedding. The Aunts, cousins, mothers and bridesmaids all tugging and pulling. Ambyr and myself yelling for room. Ambyr, as firm as possible saying “Let Sonnie (me) do it.” We’d practiced the bustle, and I’d successfully gotten her in and out of that dress at least 3 times previous. Plus, I didn’t fly 2400 miles to be a fly on the wall – right?

Actually, I’ll be 27 on the 27th of October – and I’ve known Ams since we were in diapers. Our parents lived on the same block, and still do (our Dads at least – both of our parents are divorced).

Finally, she was dressed and ready – then came a knock on the door. A special delivery for Ambyr. The Postman had a large black case, it was almost 4 p.m. on a Saturday, but Ams didn’t seem to notice. He opened it for her and pulled out an accordian. Still not quite getting it, Ambyr stood there as he started to serenade her with Polish songs. It’s a tradition for Polish girls to be serenaded by accordian on their wedding day – something, as a Polish girl, I was not aware of.

Soon, we were off to the wedding and reception site. Ambyr, glowing. We had to turn around because we forgot the bouquets – even Ambyr’s!

We eventually arrived – the ceremony incorporated several pagan rites such as hand fasting (tying of couple’s hands to symbolize their lives being tied to one another) and sharing in a bridal cocktail, a mix of sweet and sour to represent life in all it’s fullness.

The ceremony was brief, but beautiful. Then we were off to the reception! The night flew by, filled with food, laughter, tears and dancing.

And, so it was… My best friend became Mrs. Jim Valko that day

The next day, they left for Mexico. I returned to their home to house/pet sit. Aaaand… I was able to visit the family Charles and I left behind in Michigan when he joined the military.

The days flew by, but I managed to see my parents, the inlaws, friends and other family. Hamtramck, Eastpointe, Smith’s Creek, Marysville, Caro, Sebewaing, Bay Port, Bax Axe and Frankenmuth… I put over 600 miles on borrowed car in 3 days

As the weeks passed, I grew increasingly homesick. I missed my Soldier, my new friends… I missed Washington, really. Since we moved here in January, I’ve fallen in love with this state and my new friends. I love my new life, albeit 2400 miles from everything I’d once known as familiar. But, now I have a new life with new friends. And, I’m happy to be home

I’ll make sure to add some pics later