Finishing Strong - The Wedding

Words are not always needed. Some stories are best told in silence.

As I have written several times before, I am surprisingly stoic at ceremonies such as graduations and weddings. But, I did cry while making Clayton's last school lunch. Ceremonies are symbolic and only happen once. Having been a mom who has been very present in my son's life, the simple  stuff is that  which I hate seeing end.

I  have enjoyed growing with every new twist and turn of this mother-son journey. From singing good-night songs, making Play-Doh spaghetti, building pirate forts, and catching lizards to cheering crazily at high school football games and keeping the surprise honeymoon destination a closely- guarded secret.

With the whirlwind of a week-long graduation trip, rehearsal dinner and wedding preparations behind me, I watched my son exit through a tunnel of sparklers holding the hand of his beautiful bride. 

"He's gone," I whispered as tears filled my eyes.

Like an arrow from a bow, we have launched our son into the world. He will make his own unique mark with his awesome life companion. 

Mission accomplished. I have finished strong and well.

P.S. Many thanks to my middle son who has always been the calming influence in my life. Thanks for helping me throughout his wild month of total craziness. I love you.

Photo Acknowledgements : Sparkler Farewell photo by Stephanie Parsley Photography.