Chris & Anika’s Wedding – The Reception

So, I finally found the time to go through and edit the photots from the reception. I only found 65 that I really think are interesting enough to share… 65!!! That’s still too many for a post! Luckily, the bride and groom have a sharing account on Shutterfly, so I’m going to post my pics there for viewing by those who came to the wedding. And, um, here are just some of them for the rest of y’all.

The gents had holsters filled with flasks for when the ceremony was finished. Let the celebrations begin!

Whilst the ladies attended to some last minute “finishing touches”.

Most of the guests mingled during the photo session, enjoying some very non-child-friendly lemonade or wine.

And then, there was much visiting, catching up, and congratulating.

(The bride’s shoes matched the groom’s tie – tee hee.)

Of course, some of us had to follow our children to the playground. Which was a total double-edged sword kinda thing. 😉

Soon enough, it was time to head inside for dinner. The tent was decorated beautifully!!!

(I am convinced that twinkle lights just make everything better.)

We enjoyed a lovely dinner, some touching speeches, and even some fun “table activities”.

It reads: My name is Monkeyboy Jr. and I have known this couple for 2 years. I drove all the way from Alberta to celebrate this special day. I am so ecxited [excited] that Anika and Chris are tying the knot! They have to be the most radical aunt and uncle, and I wish them happiness for years to come. Advice: Don’t forget to hug before you go to bed and kiss after the lights go out. Chris, you should always make memories with Anika. Anika, your [you’re] lucky to have Chris’s love. I wish you a lifetime of happiness, health, and more happiness! ~ MBJ, 8-years-old

Then there was cake…

… and dancing…

… and even some “clinking inspired” kissing.

Which our three-year-old was apparently quite fond of. 😉

While the party was getting started…

… Monkeyboy Junior Jr. decided that he’d had enough…

… it was “too loud”, so we went for an explore. We played “Pooh sticks”, threw some rocks into the water, and eventually (with much convincing) made our way back.

Past the quiet gazebo…

… past the contemplative garden…

… and back to the rockin’ tent to say our goodbyes.

Of course, there was far more to it than that. Like sitting at a table with people who come up to Canada to hunt bears (while I’m a conservationally-minded naturalist…<ahem>). But those are the stories you can’t capture in photos, so they’ll have to be shared over tea sometime. 😉 Anyhow. I wish Chris and Anika soooo much love, a dash of luck, and a bushel of happiness for manymanymany years to come. We are here for you always. xoxox