Time To Relax

                         

Stephen and Amber had Clif and I over for a fun Christmas Evening Celebration.  It was a delight to meet her family.  We had a great time sharing fellowship, and playing games.  Dinner was delicious! 

But after all is said and done, sometimes it's just nice to get out and do something different.  Clif and I enjoyed lunch the next day at the T-Rex diner in Downtown Disney.  We ate in the Corral Reef room.  How intriguing.

                           

And when everyone was back to work, I took a much needed break to go on a four mile hike in Wekiva Springs State Park. I hiked from the Springs all the way to Sand Lake and back.  It was so nice to listen to my MP3 Christian music downloads and enjoy peace and tranquility in the presence of the Lord.  His Creation is so magnificent.  AAAHHHHH.

                                                  

Christmas Morning

Michael and Valerie ended up spending the night as our morning started early...7am.  Stephen was working, but had clearance to come over for a quick Christmas Breakfast and celebration.  The presents are wrapped, the stockings are full, and last minute breakfast preparations are under way.
 

Christmas Eve

Stephen came over to finish making Amber's gift.  Michael came home and helped, and of course Clif had to offer his input as well.  It ended up being an unexpectedly delightful Christmas Eve.  We had Prime Rib Roast, Wild Rice, and Broccoli Salad.

Christmas Preparations

This season has been busy with Christmas preparations.  From decorating, to baking cookies, visiting relatives, wrapping presents, practicing the keyboard for midnight Mass, I am seeing the light at the end of the tunnel.  Things seem to be coming together nicely.  Thought I would share a few pictures of our "girls" weekend with our beloved Aunt LaDon.  We baked, played games, decorated, and had our own Christmas celebration.  It was a good time had by all.

Revision

For many of you returning to this blog, you will see changes.  The brides family has asked that all family photos of them be removed.  It has been granted.  The comment posted at the end was one such request.

As for me and my family,  we will continue to be joyful over this union because when your joy comes from the Lord, you want to share it with those you love.

Love and Peace to all,
    Trish, Proud Mother of the Groom :)

Wedding Reception

Family members pitched in, and transformed

the pavilion into a banquet hall.

                                     

Valerie carved her faux pumpkin...

...and made and decorated her cakes.

We present to you,

Michael and Valerie Rando.

Matt, Grandpa, and Vicky

Sandra, Dina, Trish, Clif, and Matt

with Diane and Jimmy in the background.

Trish and Clif

Jim and Nereida

Sonny's catered a Thanksgiving meal

of smoked turkey and ham,

stuffing, mashed potatoes and gravy,

corn, cranberries, corn bread,

along with vegetable and fruit platters.

YUM!

The sandhill crane wanted its share too.

Sparkling Cider...

A toast to Michael and Valerie,

courtesy of his brother, Stephen.

We can't wait to bid the couple farewell,

wishing them countless blessings and goodwill.

They were showered with bubbles and birdseed.

We love you both so much,

Mom and Dad Rando

Welcome to the family

Valerie!

Now they're off to Savannah

for their honeymoon.

Congratulations, Michael and Valerie! :)

Wedding

  A dear family friend along with family members took these pictures so we could remember this happy occasion.  They did an incredible job.  Thanks!

   These are the prewedding photos.

Mom being escorted to her seat.

Awaiting the arrival of his beautiful bride!

The ceremony begins....

We now pronounce you Mr. and Mrs. Michael Rando.

Congratulations!

Formal photo taking begins...

The reception immediately following.