Honorary Flowergirl

My brother got married on January 1st.  (I won't say 'little' brother because he is 28 and he might not appreciate that) It was a beautiful wedding and we are so happy for them both.  Abigail and Ethan walked down the aisle too, as the flowergirl and ringbearer, and they took their jobs very seriously.  Afterwards, during the ceremony that Dave was officiating, I looked at the program and saw that Rachel was listed as an honorary flowergirl too! Then, I cried. I think they might have told us but I had forgotten and it was so special to see her honored in this way.


Maybe I'll go back a little bit. The first time we met Jill was at the Flames House. We were having an 8th month birthday party for Rachel and my brother asked if he could bring her. We, of course, said yes! And I knew right away, that I liked this girl alot. She was so personable. She wanted to hold Rachel. And she wanted to know what our journey with her was like. That spoke volumes to me.  She wasn't afraid of our pain. (or at least she didn't allow it to hold her back from us) How many girls do you know who have met their boyfriend's family in a hospice? From the very first day, we hoped (and prayed) that their relationship would grow because she seemed such a fine catch. And now they're married! And we are so glad that these two found each other.      
    
At their wedding reception, Evonne and I did a sister's speech and toast.  I mentioned some of what I just wrote, in thanks to her. But later I was thinking about how my brother has also amazed me, in his concern for us, and interest in Rachel.  What I didn't mention, because I wasn't sure it was the right time, is that both Kelsey and Jill came to be with us shortly after Rachel died. They held her still,cold body. And a picture I will always have in my mind is my brother holding my child, and weeping silently, his shoulders shaking.  My brother has a beautiful heart. I love this about him.


He also has a fabulous sense of humour, which came out alot in the stories told at the reception. oh Kelsey, you crack me up....you've always had this amazing ability to help us all look on the brighter side. And I'm so glad you're my brother!


What a great wedding! Here are some pictures.....

Aren't they the cutest?

Wishing Rachel could be in the picture too!

The Great Looking Couple (with red camera eyes....)