Ashley and Heidi

On Friday, September 26, 2008, Heidi Marie Mueller and Ashley Lavelle Miller started married life together. This picture was from the rehearsal on the afternoon prior.
The wedding went beautifully on a lovely autumn evening and I think these two had a great time. The minister, photographer and musicians are all friends we have had the pleasure of knowing long before the wedding, each making the day that much more special. Several of the guests said to me, "Your baby is married!" as if this was something sad, but I have not felt that way. I long ago realized that Heidi was no longer a child. But in growing up, she has become a wonderful friend who brings me happiness. I wish her and my new son-in-law a long life of happily ever after.

Ernie was here

Some photos require little explanation.....

Ernie

Meet Microman, Widgit, Sprite, or more formally, Ernie. I won't dwell on the fact that he, along with his litter mates, were discarded by a dumpster. I will instead, focus on the kitten angel who routinely gets calls in cases such as this, and rescues the babies. If they are too tiny for a bottle, she tube feeds them. She recently found a wet nurse mom, rescued herself with her 4 babies from death row at the humane society, to feed a baby who needed a lactating mother.
We had taken Winnie to the vet for some care and there was Ernie, in a cage with his brother. All the litter but Ernie had found their homes with other families. The sign said "Ernie would like to have a family of his own. Can you adopt him?" The question for us was, how could we not?? And so, once again, our bathroom is a nursery and I am buying kitten chow. Ernie is a ball of energy and our toes are his prime targets for chewing. He only has fuzz, not real fur yet, and is still getting his teeth. He and Mistie the dachshund are friends; he bats at her and she licks his face. Happiness is an orange tabby baby who loves to be nuzzled under my chin.

Wedding preparations

Heidi and I have been busy these past weeks seeing to all the preparations for her upcoming wedding to Ashley later this month. We have selected a florist, tasted wedding cakes and worked together making invitations. Every day brings a few small details we need to discuss or ponder. My cell phone bill last month reached 3 figures- shocking at first, but then very worth it! Yesterday the bridesmaids and Heidi went for their dress fittings. There was lots of laughing, pinning and turning in front of mirrors. They all looked so beautiful- just a hint of how lovely the real day will be.
Through it all, Heidi and I have had a wonderful time and I will always look back and remember the fun we have had getting ready for my little girl's wedding.