I received a phone call from my dad, he was full of wit and knew all the right things to say. He told me about his unsuccessful trip to get donuts and how disappointed he was, "How do you mess up a donut?" But, he reminded me to take my time, cherish every moment of the day, the sights, the sounds, the smells... everything. Because just like any other day, it would soon be over. He was right, three months later and I find myself missing this day more than ever.
Another brief, but perfect moment, was the prayer I got to share privately with my mom before getting ready. She knew that I was nervous and needed some Jesus to help me get through the day. My mom and I have shared a lot of prayers; but this one is probably my favorite. She's my rock & she made my fairytale wedding come true. Thanks, Momma.
I remember while I was in the shower how concerned I was to shave every inch of my legs perfectly, how silly of me. It's funny how meticulous I was being about every little detail; it's not like Jeremy had never seen my legs unshaved.
After loading up the cars with all of the wedding day decorations, dresses, makeup, etc., we were on our way! Or so we thought......
Once we got to the United States Military Academy, we went straight to the Hudson Room where our cake-cutting reception would take place. My bridesmaids were ANGELS. While I was getting my hair and make-up done, they were so helpful getting everything set up; especially the centerpieces. This part of the day FLEW by and I honestly do not know how we got everything ready in time.
We arrived at the Cadet Chapel only to find Jeremy standing on the front steps, what a goober! The girls had to shew him away so I could get inside and hide. There was a wedding right before and after ours and I remember thinking about the emotions the other brides were feeling, too.
This next moment was one of my favorite moments that happened all day. Before the ceremony began, my bridesmaids, flower girls and I waited together in a small wing of the chapel. I could see all of our guests filing inside and could hear our organist playing. We all held hands in a circle and my dear friend, Emily, prayed. I remember laughing, crying and sharing this moment with the girls that had stood by me, for better and for worse, and were almost 1,000 miles away from home to share this day with me. These are my best friends.
Then, it began. My girls were walking down the 175 ft aisle. My dad had joined me and we were talking about how nervous we were. I think I may have told him to walk slow, but who knows. :P Here it was, our cue to start walking. My dad and I walked to the start of the aisle and paused while the guests began to stand and look back at us. I remember thinking, "Why does this aisle have to be so long, I can't see Jeremy's face." My thoughts were soon interrupted by THE loudest horn I have ever heard and my 'bride's procession' began. The song I chose to walk down the aisle to was "A Thousand Years" by The Piano Guys. My dad told me how proud he was of me and that he loved me very much. Halfway down the aisle, he handed me to Lewis who took me the rest of the way to give me away to my husband.
After the ceremony and reception were over, Jill Knight & Kelley King took Jeremy and I back out to the million dollar view to take pictures of us at sunset. The pictures turned out perfectly and I remember soaking it all in, because who knew when I would be back to this place. This place had been all Jeremy and I had known in our relationship and saying goodbye was one of the most bittersweet things I can remember. We made it.
We climbed into our black Camero, wedding dress and all, and headed out of the main gate. On the way out, I asked Jeremy if he would miss it, he told me that he's sure he would once we got home and the realization that he wouldn't be coming back hit him, but he was right where he was supposed to be.
We were on our way to New York City to stay at the Waldorf Astoria, but guess where we had to stop first for dinner? You guessed it.... McDonald's. My heart's desire. :)
We pulled up to the front doors of the Waldorf Astoria and were greeted by a chauffer. He opened my passenger door and welcomed me as "Mrs. Sledge". I will never forget how incredible that felt. They took all of our luggage for us, including our Mcdonald's bag, and took it to our room. I remember walking through this grand hotel in my wedding dress with my husband next to me in the most spiffy uniform and literally feeling like a princess. We had multiple hotel guests approach us and ask to take pictures with us and congratulate us; talk about feeling famous!
<3