big doings this past weekend

saturday, a wedding day

On Saturday, my cousin Kristin got married to David in a picture perfect wedding. Our family came from near and far, to attend the wedding. Her Uncle Kirk performed the wedding ceremony. Her dad gave her away. Her proud mom was there, beaming. Her big brother was one of the groom’s men, in full tuxedo regalia and tears of joy.

Kristin’s wedding party spoke warmly about the union made that day. The food and the music were great. A good time was had by all.

the family band aid

sunday, a game day

Several people were able to extend the trip so we got together at my brother’s home to watch the Saints. We were hoping for a better outcome, without a doubt. Still, we easily managed to have a great time. It was more the company than anything.

monday, a loss made easier

Warm feelings of joy over simply being able to be together, wrapped us in love, laughter, smiles, hugs, games. It buffered the blow the game dealt yesterday, and made today much easier to walk through. You see, today, October 25th, is the third anniversary of my dad’s death.

As it turns out, this weekend was a perfect way to celebrate my dad, without any formal dedication. It was a great weekend he would have been fully invested in. He loved having his family and friends around, celebrating joyful events, and he loved the New Orleans Saints.

With much gratitude, I continue. Put simply, family and friends make life easily more pleasurable in good times, and more bearable in bad times.

In the photo: Smothers, Jones, Stampley, Coyle families: just a small part of my family.