Princess Bride

In exactly 10 days from now, my niece Aubrey is going to walk down the wide curving staircase of an historic hotel in downtown Nashville on her father’s arm. Like royalty, she’ll be stunning in the perfect white dress of her dreams.

Family and friends will have come from near and far to see this wonderful thing play itself out; some of them will be meeting Patrick for the first time.

We will also celebrate the graceful journey that carried Aubrey to this day. Because you see, Aubrey made the decision long ago to stay true to herself, not willing to exchange authenticity for popularity, and she’s still comfortable in that skin.

In high school, Aubrey was her own person, strong and true and gorgeous and creative and loyal. A great friend to her mom, my sister. This alone would have been enough  to reserve a special spot for her in my heart.

But there’s ever so much more to love about this woman. She’s not perfect, true. But I think that her shortcomings (and it’s a short list) make her more deeply and honestly human. Equipped to offer mercy and grace to a world of hurting, used up people. You’re going to be a fabulous nurse, Aubs!

But back to the topic at hand: You’re getting married to Patrick in only ten days! To think that the  guy you met in the Samford cafeteria is the man you’ve been waiting for all your life. Oh yes, I see how he treats you. He’s a good man…

We will be at the Union Station next Sunday in our finest, ready to celebrate the beginning of a new chapter in your Story. Two amazing human beings, coming together to make one life. With all the creative juices flowing in this relationship, it should be an interesting tale, don’t you think?

I know that I speak for the rest of your family when I say we are tremendously proud of you. When you see something you want, you go for it. Not afraid to graduate college with a degree in psych and say, Um…no, I don’t think so. And then go back for more.

I’m so grateful my daughters have you to look up to. You point the way to who & where their dad and I hope that Anna and Peanut will be and go.

So enjoy a wonderful last week of single-hood! Sneak away once or twice with your beautiful mom and make a couple more memories for her to treasure when you have gone back to Birmingham.

We love you, sweet woman! I’ve got my dancing shoes all shined and ready to wear out, come this Sunday night. Mazel tov!