flashback | my sister's wedding

All photos courtesy of Avalon Photography

Six months ago today, my sister, Kristina, married her love, Myles. It was a gorgeous event. She was gorgeous, the flowers were gorgeous, the weather, location, ceremony, cake, and reception were all gorgeous. I'm not exaggerating, just check out the pictures.  Despite a sick, and therefore very uncooperative flower girl, it was a perfect day.

When I first heard of their engagement, I was not just thrilled for my sister's happiness, I was also excited about being part of her special day and helping her along the sometimes bumpy road of wedding planning. I so enjoyed being present when she found her perfect dress, picked the perfect flowers, and addressed each invitation.

As matron of honor, I was to give a toast at the reception. I was honored, and did my best, but am certain I fell short of my potential.

Procrastination and I are great friends, we gather together often. So, although I had planned to pre-write my speech, I kept putting it off until a few days before the wedding. I wanted to write a speech that celebrated the newly married couple, but more than that, I wanted a speech that showed everyone what a special person Kristina is and how much I love her and love that she is my sister. I had a great start to the speech, but kept getting stuck in the middle and then would get interrupted before I could work through the clutter in my brain. No matter how many times I tried, I could not get past that hurdle.

The night before the wedding, Laci woke with a blazing fever. Between caring for a sick baby, helping Kristina get ready, and getting ready myself, the speech was permanently shifted to the back recesses of my brain. I pep talked myself into believing I could just wing the end of the speech. I have given countless presentations before, some ad-libbed, and this would all be fine, I assured myself.

That is, until the microphone was placed on the table in front of me. I plastered a smile on my face. I panicked on the inside. The champagne was poured and I would be giving the first toast. I took a deep breath and stood up, hoping that by some miracle the end of my speech would just form on my lips. It didn't.

I successfully introduced myself, but stumbled through my first sentence and struggled to compose myself. I think I managed to pull it all together in the end, despite my nerves, I remember a chuckled from the audience when I made a little joke, and I remembered to raise my glass to make it an official toast. And though I doubt anyone can remember the actual words I said, I know I could have done better for my sister.

So, with that probably too long backstory, I would like to share the toast I should have given six months ago, the toast Kristina deserves to hear, and, hopefully, the toast she will remember.

I was only seventeen months old when Kristina was born, so I do not remember what life was like before having a sister. I cannot imagine what life would be like without her in it. I have memories of games we've played together, fights we've had, experiences we've shared, and all of them made better because we shared them together. As cliche as it may sound, she is truly one of my best friends. She is always helpful when I need her and she is always ready to party when it's time to party.

A lifetime of experiences together will allow you to really know a person. I know that Kristina is a hard worker, loves horses and dogs, prefers to drive backroads instead of the freeway, and would prefer a leftover steak for breakfast instead of waffles. I know that Kristina is a strong woman with a tough exterior, but that a passionate heart exists within. She might hate to admit it, but she is a sensitive soul. At times, she has a quick temper, but she is even quicker to forgive. And with that fiery temper comes a fiery heart, a heart that is genuine and strong. When Kristina loves something, she loves deeply and truly, with her entire heart. I cannot think of a greater quality to bring to a marriage.

I am sure that by now, Myles, you have come to know and appreciate this quality in Kristina, and you know how lucky you are to be granted the gift of her heart. I am so happy for the two of you to be able to express your love to each other through today's ceremony. I wish the very best for both of you as you begin your life together and throughout the years to come. And at those times when things aren't so great, remember this day and the feelings of love that have been so clearly expressed. When all else fails, just love each other. I raise my glass in toast, to the bride and groom and to your future together. Love you both.