My daughter Marie is getting married March 19. With the help of Jill Bigelow, Linda Sue Smith, and Melody Newey, and fourteen women bringing salads, we threw a Bridal Shower for her February 26, 2011.
The shower was a wonderful showing of love and support for Marie. About three years ago, two sisters in our ward started a "contribute to the gift" fund, which has enabled everyone to be a part of weddings, babies, and other occasions without the hassle of gift buying, budgeting , etc. We had over fifty people come including members of the home ward, family, and friends from Marie's singles ward. She didn't expect it and was so pleased with all the noisy chatter and well wishes.
The room was immersed in feelings of excitement and anticipation. Optimism punctuated with measuring spoons and water pitchers. Women gathered over orange jello with heart shapes floating in the creamy topping, chattering and smiling; pleased her fiance is so handsome. Marie aghast at the generosity, flustered by the greetings, not knowing quite what to do with all the love and praise she hadn't expected. Basking in the unspeakable pain of feeling so much love, she hesitated opening the gifts until we finally insisted.
Women, beautiful women, contributing to each other's life experiences through nurturing, nourishing, and natural affection. Women just being the best women can be.
