The girls and I arrived back home late Tuesday night. To say that it was a whirlwind of a trip is a slight understatement. Little sleep was had {mostly on my part}, add in some bed wetting and mama-sickness and it was a busy time. Even with some draw backs, it was such a great trip celebrating my littlest brother’s graduation and my best friend’s wedding. And let’s be honest, most importantly all the flights went smoothly {even had a few “your girls are so well behaved” comments} and the girls seem to be back on track for our normal lives.

After six days in Tennessee, I headed to Chicago Friday night for my best friend, Carrie’s wedding. We spent all day Saturday doing wedding preparations and pampering Carrie for her big day {which was Sunday afternoon}. It was fabulously fun and Carrie looked amazing.

My Favorite Shot of the Couple, even if fuzzy {Taken by Meredith L.}

It was such a sweet, sweet time to see Carrie and Jamil commit their lives to one another. From the time I met Jamil, 3 years ago, I knew that he was such a perfect match for Carrie. Endearing, loving and kind-hearted, just like her. It was an honor to be a part of their ceremony and stand up there while they shared their vows.

There was one minor draw back at the wedding….

I fainted.

Yes, you read that right. I fainted. I knew it was coming. I started getting overheated and lightheaded and just knew that I was going to faint. Apparently, I did it gracefully {at least that’s what I was told} and out of the way. I stepped out of line and walked into a hallway just a few steps away. Thankfully, I fell with most of my weight on my arm/side and protected my stomach from hitting the ground. I have a midwife appointment later today {previously set}, though I’ve felt baby move since then and am not worried. At the time, I wasn’t too worried, just extremely upset about having “ruined” the ceremony. Especially because it happened right before their first kiss. I have good timing. {Currently taking applications as “that” bridesmaid.}

The rest of the night went perfectly. And Carrie looked radiant the whole time.

Notice the fireplace? That's were the procession stood, thus contributing to my overheating.

We were able to drive around Chicago after the ceremony to take pictures with the photographer. I haven’t seen the pictures yet, but I know they will turn out great. It was a lot of fun being out and about in the city, all dressed up and taking pictures.

In order to save money, I spent the night at Jamil and Carrie’s new place since they were in a hotel. That’s where the real fun began. And by fun, I mean not fun. I woke up around 2 am sick as could be. At first I thought perhaps I had gotten food poisoning, but then my mom suggested it was my body’s reaction to major fatigue. How I made it from the apartment, to the L, to the airport and home is beyond me {lots of prayer}. Once at my parent’s I slept all day and felt much better come Tuesday.

The week/weekend was a grand adventure that I will cherish forever {well, except for the whole fainting and getting sick part}. I had a chance to see Carrie enter into her newest {and best} stage of her life and to celebrate with my brother, John, as he goes on to college this fall.
Visit Alicia at Alicia’s Homemaking for more Try New Adventures Thursday.