for Shannon Acosta

My sister is getting married in one month.

Well, 26 days.

The ceremony and reception sites are booked. The RSVPs are in. The dress has arrived. It's almost game time.

After running through the probable setup and time line with the event coordinator at the country club, I can say with full confidence that this is going to be one kickin' wedding! With so much already accomplished in anticipation of the big day, we are left to iron out remaining details. What exactly should the centerpieces look like? Who will attend the program table? Which limo company should we go with? When should the bridal party arrive at the church in preparation for photos? Just how many gallons of white wine sangria should there be (many, please!)?

It's all very exciting.

It's the event that I stayed in Virginia for, that I lived in Norfolk one last time for. The day that I'm so glad I could be around all fall to help my siister plan.

The day. Down to the details.

Down to the moment one has in the periphery of one's mind during a lifetime: the moment one's sister gets married. But this time it's MY sister! MY dear sister who has had the chance to be there on so many of her friends' special days. It's HER turn to wear the beautiful white dress and look like a frickin princess (because she is very pretty even when she's not decked out). MY sister! And I get to stand there and try and hold back my buckets of tears while she looks so gorgeous and gets married to an excellent addition to the family (favorite new brother Marty!) because it is all just so very happy!

So I'll do my maid of honor duties and make a toast and dance the night away and get Shannon to eat something so she doesn't pass out and make sure nothing gets in the way of my sister having a perfect wedding experience because that's what she deserves - a simply fabulous party which everyone is attending because of her (and Marty).

26 days. A handful of details. One great night.

And after it's over, I just have to find myself a hubby so Shannon and I can take our boys and travel the world as a foursome!