Rachel + Adam

Congratulations to Rachel & Adam Burger-Welldone. (Sorry, that never gets old!) It was a gorgeous wedding, and I was thrilled to be a part of it. I expected nothing less than a fabulous weekend (it helps with the bride is a wedding coordinator), yet it still exceeded my expectations.

I must say, it was great to get away for a few days. Annie & I splurged for a room at the Marriott Coronado for 3 nights, and it was well worth it. We also rented a car (it was so tiny we nicknamed it the Egg) so we could get around easily. Thursday night we had dinner at La Trattoria Fantistica in Little Italy & walked to R+A's adorable condo. Friday morning, I woke up at 5:30 and went for what ended up being a 9 mile run around the island. It was perfect - the houses, the beach, the weather, the eye-candy (hey sailors!)... it was just the run I needed. Then I swam for an hour in the lap pool (!!!) while Annie did yoga. We then headed to the beloved Hash House A Go Go for an incredible breakfast of pancakes and a veggie hash. I gotta say, this place beats Cafe Brazil hands down. We hit the mall so I could take care of the "dress support" issue and then to the rehearsal. Then girl time with our foursome & the rehearsal dinner.

Jenna, Annie & I had put a book together for Rachel - a wedding tradition - and toasted her with a poem. It was a hit! The rehearsal was great - I got to catch up with my long lost Tulsa friends. It always amazes me how you can pick up with people 10 years later and not skip a beat.

Saturday was yoga by the beach, breakfast in downtown Coronado, then a fun day in the bridal suite with Rachel and the girls. By the way, I have never felt as "girly" as I have been this week. A haircut, brow wax, french manicure by Annie, and then smoky eye makeup. I hardly recognized myself! :)

Then - ba da da dah - the wedding was gorgeous. I loved the ceremony... The rabbi's sermon was very meaningful to me - the prayers and teachings were beautiful. I had forgotten so much of what Judaism says about marriage - and I will admit that it was inspired. Also, I'm always inspired watching a bride and groom who so obviously fit together. I am so happy for them.

The reception was great. There were luckily no winners of the "most drunk bridesmaid" contest, though at one point there seemed to be some contenders. ;) I have no shame in admitting that there were certainly hard moments for me - this was my first wedding solo, ever - but thankfully Annie was a fantastic escort. More than anything, spending time with my girls was exactly what I have been needing. I draw strength from reflecting on everything we have been through together, how we support each other, and how our friendship continues to grow as we reach different stages of our lives.

I am feeling refreshed and revitalized and happier than ever for Rachel.

Congratulations R+A. :)