I am elated to report that Jeff is back from Baghdad! I missed him so much! He was only gone a couple of months, but it seemed like much longer. I cannot tell you the respect that I have for military wives and families. My hats off to you! I can't imagine doing it with kids either, luckily I won't have to worry about that ANYTIME soon. :)
So, we went to Florida for his cousin Matt's wedding. We started the weekend by lounging on the beach. It was a sunny 92 degrees and the water felt like a warm bath. It was delightful! After spending most of the day on the beach, we went to grab lunch. Lunch started out with just the two of us and then our table started to grow. Maria (Jeff's mom) and many Timmerman's (cousins, aunts, on Maria's "side" of the family) joined us. It ended up being a fun afternoon. This was my first time meeting the extending family. Everyone was incredibly welcoming and I felt like I fit right in. :)
We went for soft serve ice cream and relaxed before getting ready for the rehearsal dinner. The dinner was absolutely delicious. It was at the Marriot hotel, outside, with a view of the beach. There was a live band also. It was really relaxing and just a great time.
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| Maria, Aunt Terry, and Aunt MaryBeth Dancing |
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| Maria, Kelly (Jeff's sister), Jeff, and I at the rehearsal dinner |
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| Rehearsal dinner |
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| Jeff and I with the happy couple at the rehearsal dinner |
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| Most of the Timmerman's at rehearsal dinner |
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| Biking the morning away! |
The next day, Jeff and I worked out and then went walking along the boardwalk. Later, we met up with the Timmerman clan and we rented a bunch of bikes. We went biking along the boardwalk for about the hour. It was a bunch of fun!
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| Jeff & I after the ceremony |
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| Amanda - stunning bride |
We then, of course, had to lay on the beach for a while. After a busy and active morning, both Jeff and I fell asleep! We were super tired and poor Jeff was still quite jet lagged (Baghdad is 7 hours ahead). Soon, it was time to get ready for the wedding! Unfortunately, it was quite windy and there was a possibility for thunderstorms. Matt and Amanda were lucky though! No storms, just wind! :) They were able to still have their beach wedding.
Next up: THE RECEPTION. Beautiful hydrangeas adorned the table, along with candles. Of course, there was wine, wedding cake, and a seated dinner. Grandpa Timmerman prayed before dinner, Matt (the groom) gave a great little speech, their fraternity and sorority friends sang two fun songs/chants, and of course there was lots of dancing!
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| All engaged this year :) Super fun wedding for the Timmerman family! |
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| All the girls with Grandpa Timmerman |
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| The "boys" |
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