Present for the Present Opening

Last night the bride's Mom invited me to their house for lunch. The couple is planning to open their gifts before leaving on their honeymoon to the Adirondacks (their Pennsylvania trip got flooded out). Drew and I head there after church and a nap, where we are served a lovely spaghetti dinner. Then the fun begins.

We sit on the deck, bathed in sun and warmth. The trees rustle ever so slightly when the light breeze floats by us. The occasional butterfly kisses nearby flowers, and the water in the pool dances gently under its fall covering. Bees buzz about annoying children and adults alike. Lots of relatives occupy lawn chairs and deck chairs, some under table umbrellas, others under tree shade. I sit in the full sun even though I know chemo skin will burn. I want to be able to see what all they unwrap.

Such lovely gifts they receive. Lots of kitchen things - bright dinnerware in red, yellow, blue, green and white, along with numerous small appliances. My sister has given them gifts cards to places in the Adirondacks where they will be honeymooning - restaurants and attractions. There is a lovely crystal vase and of all things, a flat screen TV! Then they open the gift cards. Happily, friends are generous. They will be able to finish paying expenses for their wedding and have enough left to put towards an apartment deposit.

I enjoy being part of the family conversations, hearing one grandma chat about past weddings and an uncle talk about escapades of hunting and other good times. I chat with the parents about the new waterline that will bring city water to their house, how the new garage is working, what is happening with the newly purchased land out behind their yard. No hurries.

At last I realize that my energy is zapped and I need to go home. A few others depart as well. I know the blessed couple will show up at my place before they leave town to gather their luggage, so I don't feel bad about not staying until they leave. A lovely afternoon indeed.