This week I watched as my brother married the love of his life. They had an extremely intimate ceremony at Broken Top Club in Bend surrounded by 30 of their closest family and friends. Amanda is a master of words, and wrote the exquisitely crafted ceremony herself. As the officiant wove their story of love, and they recited the vows they had written for each other, we wept with joy for their luck at finding each other. All 30 of us. The world lost another forest Wednesday with all of the kleenex that was being passed around.

Inspired is the only word that comes to mind when thinking about these two. They are the perfect example of what it means to give, to love, and to cherish. Walt and Amanda I love you and I’m so excited to see what comes next for you.

Here are just a few of my favorites from Wednesday.

Walter’s best man, Chris Shipley played guitar for them while Amanda walked. He’s a close friend to both of them.

One of the most memorable moments of the day for me was watching Amanda’s emotions as she practiced her vows at the salon before the wedding. She genuinely loves my brother, and for that I love her more than words.

Allison at Lemon Halo did an unbelievable job on the flowers for the day. Can you catch your breath? GUH-OR-GEOUS!

Dear Blog-of-my-heart,

I’m writing to tell you dear friend how much I’ve missed you. Work has been so busy lately I find myself not having the energy or strength or time to give you. I know you deserve better. I’m sitting here thinking about you and what fun we used to have when spending time together. I can promise you the future is bright between us, and this isn’t a false promise. I’ll be better to you. You + Me = US. See you soon.

Love you,

Me