Yesterday i was fortunate enough to attend a family wedding, a very special wedding too because it was the first marriage involving the new generation, those who we'd seen grow from cheeky little tiddlers to well-rounded and mature young adults, surely one of the most satisfying of sensations for those of us above a certain age.

Our beautiful niece, Amy, was the blushing (and giggling) bride, taking her vows with her beloved Luke and it was both touching and refreshing to witness the shedding of tears at the altar by the overwhelmed groom on this wonderful family occasion.

The ceremony itself was perfect throughout, concluding with a Cherokee blessing which i'd gladly reproduce here if i could remember it because it was so appropriate and meaningful, lending a slightly different spiritual aspect to proceedings but fitting in so wonderfully with the day.

The reception was excellent too and i enjoyed a lengthy spell of people-watching and generally soaking-up the happiness whilst supping my cider, smiling as the wife dropped less than subtle hints to our sons regarding them taking their own strolls down the aisle in the near future, all said, much to the boys' amused irritation, right in front of their respective girlfriends.

All in all, it was a very happy, memorable day and one which will stay with us forever and i can only conclude by saying that we dearly wish Amy & Luke every happiness in the world and a long & loving life in each others arms.