Mr. and Mrs.

 

 

 

As promised, the photos from our photographer have come in and I am sharing them here for one last wedding post. There are many, many photos, so I tried to pick only my favorites.

We love that she captured the day in such a beautiful way and especially love the candid shots. There is so much emotion in these photos. They highlight the details, but also capture the love and joy. If you are planning a wedding, make sure you splurge a little on the photographer. It's worth every penny.

All photos by Carrie House Photography. Locations: J.W. Marriott Grand Rapids, Basilica of St. Adalberts, Blue Bridge, Grand Rapids Art Museum and Grand Rapids Downtown Market.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Have a wonderful weekend!

 

In case you missed it: My Daughter's Wedding Part 1, Part 2 and Part 3

 

 

Fall Reading List

 

 

It's hard to feel fallish when it's still in the nineties outside (hottest day of the summer yesterday!), but I know that finally, after a long hot stretch, the the humidity will begin to drop, afternoon thunderstorms will stop and picture perfect fall days are almost here in Florida. I think of fall reading as an opportunity to get cozy and maybe even wrap up in a blanket, but unfortunately, that doesn't apply to me right now. But, I'm still here for those of you with leaves turning, a nip in the air at night and the chance to cuddle up with a good book.

There are a lot of interesting books on my Fall list; some new authors and some old favorites. Some of these come from some of you, some from browsing Amazon and some from random websites I come across. I used to stand and pull books from the library shelves, read the book jacket and hope for the best. I miss that a little bit.

Isn't it nice though to have a virtual world of book recommendations right at home on your screen?

 

A pick by Reese Withersoon (she seems to be the new Oprah Book Club)

 

Love her books (usually)

 

Nonfiction with rave reviews

 

As good as Brooklyn? (I loved the book and the movie.)

 

Mary Bennett's point of view

 

Always very happy to have V.I. back and on the the case in Chicago

 

Rumor had it this series was done, but I was happy to see that was not true

 

Happy Reading!

 

Late Summer Night in Michigan

 

 

 

 

Bayview Yacht Club (that's Canada across the Detroit River)

 

St. Peter and Paul Jesuit Church

 

Grosse Pointe War Memorial

 

 

 

Another trip to Michigan (a very quick one) and another wedding, but this time I could sit back and relax as a guest and it was lovely.

My good friend's son was married on Friday and even though I had just been back, I knew it was a life event I couldn't miss. My husband held things together at home and I flew in and out in two days; breakfast with my daughter, the wedding and a visit with my parents, the only things on my itinerary.

The wedding mass was at the oldest Catholic church in Detroit ( established in 1848) and it was a beautiful ceremony. So many of my good friends were there and it made me happy to walk in the church and see all the familar faces, so dear to me. After the ceremony, since the weather was picture perfect, we were spontaneously hosted by friends at their yacht club on the Detroit River, for a quick drink before the start of the wedding reception. It is one of my favorite spots and shows off an aspect of the city that those not familar with Detroit have no idea exists. Sailing and boating are an important way of life in Michigan. The beautiful Detroit River and adjoining Lake St. Clair, with Canada on the other side, are a stunning example of that, on any summer night.

The wedding reception was held at The Grosse Pointe War Memorial, also on the waterfront and the ballroom, with its wrap around windows, afforded gorgeous views of Lake St. Clair. When we walked in the room, the early evening sun was sparkling on the water and it was breathtaking. For me, it was a wonderful night catching up with friends. Having just experienced our daughter's wedding last month, the whole night brought back so many memories and emotions, as well. I know now how much it means to have friends and family by your side and share in your joy. I'm very happy I could be there for my friend.

Happy Monday!