by Fran Mascioli

Created on: November 24, 2011   Last Updated: December 03, 2011

It seemed as though the whole world stopped turning for a moment as she appeared. It took my breath away. How beautiful my oldest daughter looked in that lovely gown. Her long, dark hair was curled in delicate swirls that surrounded her pretty face. She smiled so sweetly. "How do I look, Mom?" she quietly asked. I could not speak. "Oh, don’t cry, please… I’ll start too!" she pleaded. But we both sobbed with tears of joy.  "Can you button up the back?" she asked.  My fingers were shaking as I helped her finish dressing. 

"We’re ready," the photographer said. We walked together, holding hands, outside to the beautiful wooden decking over the pond where she planned to take her vows. Her chosen soul mate was standing with the preacher. The railings had been decorated with fresh cut flowers and ribbons.  "Oh, Mom ... everyone looks so happy..." she sighed.  I could not help but understand her true beauty at that moment.  Since childhood, she has sincerely wanted those around her to be happy ... always the peacemaker.  She is kind, helpful, working to save our trees, help our environment, and volunteering her time.  She is a remarkable woman.  And now she has found someone to share her life, her dreams and passion for living. 

On that sunny afternoon, as the crowd looked on, my daughter seemed to glide softly into the spot chosen for this blessed event. The bridesmaids stood there with tears spilling from their eyes. My youngest daughter, the matron of honor, smiled warmly as we approached.  The groom’s men beamed with happiness.

All I could think about was my little girl ... as a baby in my arms. I recalled her first day attending school… and her graduation from college. Pleasant memories flowed through my mind as she stood there on her wedding day, looking more lovely than I could have ever imagined.

There was an amazing feeling of peace and contentment that afternoon. It could not have been a more perfect day. The South Georgia fall weather was cooperative, and the light breeze brought with it the sweet smells of that lovely garden setting. Although it was a sunny day, several large pine trees on the property shaded that decking, creating a charming view.

Friends and family looked on as I placed her hand into the strong welcoming hand of her handsome husband-to-be. He smiled as he watched me try to speak. The preacher asked, "Who gives this woman?" I said, "I do," through trembling lips. "I love you, Mom," she whispered. Sharing that moment with my daughter and her mate was truly an honor.

The preacher announced them as husband and wife. We all stood and applauded this new beginning. My daughter smiled as they walked hand-in-hand to the reception awaiting the newly united.

We all hugged before sitting down to the wedding dinner. They sat at the head table and ate their first meal a married couple. The celebration began as they danced and then cut the cake. She threw her bouquet, he threw the garter and the photographer snapped pictures of the precious memories, complete with laughter and joy.

There was so much love to behold. The sweet fragrance of that day will remain in our hearts forever.

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