#kcanderson2016

Photo credit: Killer Creations
Photography and Design

After a few way-to-fast days with my family, it was time to head down to Detroit for Kelsy's wedding! I will admit, it was really hard to leave my family (mostly those two little babes) but, I am so glad and feel truly honored that I was asked to stand alongside my friend on her big day! Her big, beautiful, super fun, wedding day! Seriously, look at this beautiful bride -->

Photo credit: Killer Creations 
Photography and Design

Kelsy had picked me up at the airport earlier that week and as we made the drive back to Grand Ledge, she told me all about the plans and her super organized details. The thing I have always loved about Kelsy is her laid-back style and silly sense of humor. Naturally, these things were reflected in her wedding. No wedding is planned without stress, but a week out from the big day, Kel was calm, collected, and mostly just ready to party.

Friday night was the rehearsal dinner. We went to a nearby brewery for drinks and delicious food. Then went back to the hotel where we made over a hundred little favors for wedding guests to leave with. Saturday morning we met in the bridal suite and got the day going! A few hours later it was time for photos. Most anyone who knows about Michigan will know that planning anything in February is risky because of the weather. But even mother nature showed up and provided sunshine and warmish temps... as well as some wind, but that's easy enough to hide in a photo.

It's amazing to me how different it feels to stand as a bridesmaid in different weddings. It is always an honor and a joy and tons of fun. But still, within that there are differences. With Kelsy, it was a huge sense of pride and a feeling of accomplishment almost. Dana and I joked that 'our little girl' was getting married. I suppose after more than 10 years of friendship, when you've been with someone through their awkward phases, greatest accomplishments, and devastating times, they truly do become part of your family.  I couldn't stop reflecting back over the weekend about my friendship with Kelsy. And with over ten years of friendship, I had a lot to reflect on! It was fun to think back about the early stages of Kelsy & Casey and what her thoughts were then. Dana and I had a sense even back then that he was different. And it was amazing to think back at the development of their relationship, appreciate where it is now, and celebrate the wonderful future ahead of them.

 I can't begin to explain how beautiful the ceremony and reception were. Every detail reflected the charm and love Casey and Kelsy share as well as their fun personalities! From the flannel tops and sneakers we all wore to the Upper Peninsula shaped groom's cake, the wedding was adorable and fun from start to finish! I was able to catch up with several high school friends and had a great time dancing and celebrating my best friend's wedding!

The most difficult thing about living overseas is missing out on major events back home. I am so honored Kelsy asked me to be in her wedding. And I am so glad it all worked out that I could come home and stand proudly by my friend as she entered the newest chapter in her life. It is never easy to miss out, even for the little things, and so for something as big as this it was totally worth it! I love my family.  I love my friends. No matter where I am in the world.

My little loves!

Two years ago I was blessed to meet my nephew the day he arrived. When I learned this past summer my sister was due with baby #2 in February, I was immediately thinking about the fact I wouldn't meet him or her until months later... certainly not ideal. Then I realized I would be coming home for a friend's wedding in February! So instead of weeks and months, I was only a few days late to welcome the newest little addition....Charlotte Marie

My friend and the bride-to-be picked me up at the airport and we planned to have a mini celebration to kick off the week before her wedding. But I was secretly counting the hours until I could snuggle with that little peanut!

And snuggle I did!!!! As long as she was sleeping. Even though she was only a few weeks old, that little one liked to be moving and checking out the world if she was awake! Luckily for me, she was asleep for most of the day. Unfortunately for my sister and brother-in-law, this meant she was awake nearly all night.  I wish I could say I was super helpful and they were able to get some sleep while I cared for her, but I have auntie ears not mom ears-- I snoozed away on the couch and didn't hear a thing.

But I like to think I helped a bit during the day. Giving Amanda a chance to shower, or eat, or sleep a bit. She was even able to leave a do some solo grocery shopping one day. All while the little one snoozed away!

Of course, it wasn't all about Miss Charlotte! That little guy I met two years ago has suddenly become a toddler, and sometimes he seems even older! Dylan is gentle and kind and funny as can be- not that those traits are surprising, just look at his parents and extended family! His passion for trains is still going strong, so mom and I took him to the museum to see the trains. And then to lunch where we got to sit an old train car! Our morning ran a bit long and soon we had a hungry, sleepy toddler on our hands. But you wouldn't even know it! I know his 'terrible twos' shine through at times, but thankfully this wasn't one of them. :P

Before I knew it, Friday had arrived and it was time to head off for the wedding. I was planning to drop the car off, say a quick goodbye and then go. But after spending a few days with my favorite little family, I knew a quick goodbye wasn't going to work. So we headed over there a bit sooner and I was able to get in some last minute snuggles and giggles with the littlest loves of my life!!