I have always loved sending mail and making cards. I figure, if people are half as excited as I am when I receive a letter than it's all worth the effort. This morning I probably spent 30 minutes practicing different "fonts" to use and figuring out which pen looked the best and felt right in my hand. And I think I held my breath on the first one until I was all the way done. But it is fun to see the little pile there, waiting to be stamped and sent out into the world.

It will be a very small wedding; just family. And although there are MANY more people that we would've liked to send these cards to, there were limiting factors: time frame, location... But I know that this is the best option and it will be a wonderful, intimate gathering. It has only been four weeks that we've been engaged, but we've already checked so many things off the list. Most of the time it has been overwhelming for me and I think "Maybe you should just tell me when and where to be..." But now that I am sitting here, with my cup of tea, pen in hand, addressing each of these envelopes, I know that it is worth all the effort.

As I write each persons name and address I remember moments, gatherings, snapshots of our interactions. And for those I have not met in person, I think about the stories I've heard or I wonder what it will be like when we do meet...

A long time ago my mom said to my sister and I, "Friends will come and go, but you'll be sisters forever." We have been blessed to have become dear friends as well as sisters and our journey has been smooth and enjoyable (and at times awkward!). But that's not always the case. Relationships are challenging and I think family is the often the best example. But no matter what we go through, we will always be family and to be surrounded by these people on May 10th will be a good reminder of the love and the grace we give and receive throughout our lives.