When my sister told her soon to be in-laws that she intended to invite every family from the daycare she works at they were dubious to say the least. Here in America formal celebrations are often relegated to the world of adults, children to the world of babysitters, but this was not what Beth wanted. She wanted the people who know who best and who she enjoys spending time with there to celebrate with her. This meant lots of children. The guests numbered just under 100 with 20 children under the age of 5.

The ceremony was “short and sweet” as Beth put it. She and her husband wrote their own vows. The official part of the ceremony lasted just under 15 minutes. Then everyone was invited to get drinks and share memories of the happy couple. Even the children got to do this which meant they got to use a microphone while everyone listened to them.

The dinner came next. A buffet had been planned and since the group was relatively small the line moved fast. There was plenty of fruit and a punch fountain. No cranky, hungry children here.

After dinne the real fun began. Tables were moved revealing the dance floor. At other weddings we have been to it has been a struggle to keep the children off the floor so the adults can dance. Normally they don’t or least not enough to fill the floor. This time the children made room for the adults and danced the night away. At least until 7:00.

That night when we had our evening prayers I was praying for the usual, thanks for our family and a good day, Avril said, “thanks for the best party ever!”

Beth with one of her day care children.

Two and Avril dancing