Special letters from the night before the wedding (October 1, 2004):
From Casey to me:
Ashley Rae,
I really can't believe this day is finally here! I have had so many emotions leading up to today. I have been sad thinking about how I will never live with you again and just the other things that will change after today. But I have also been overwhelmed with excitement and happiness! I am so happy that you found your soul mate in Craig. I couldn't ask for a better big brother. I truly love him and will be forever grateful that he makes you as happy as he does. I hope you both know how much of a positive role model couple you have always been for me. I never would have found Wesley without it.
I just want you to know that I love you so much and I honestly couldn't be happier for you! Enjoy this day because it is yours. We will remember these moments forever. I know you will be the most beautiful bride I will ever see. You are the best sister and friend I could ever ask for. Thank you for everything and good luck today. I'll be right by your side feeling the proudest I have ever felt.
I love you my beautiful sissy,
Casey Lynn
From my dad to me:
Ashley,
Congratulations on your special day! Words cannot describe how incredibly proud I am of you. You have exceeded any expectations I have ever had for you! You have grown from my little girl to a beautiful young woman. I hope Craig knows how lucky he is! I hope I can remain your strength and your motivation [words I used to describe him in a special gift I gave on our rehearsal night], although somehow, I think you would do quite well on your own. Please be happy in every aspect of your life. Always remember that you are now a couple and be considerate of each others needs. But most of all, never ever forget that I love you with all my heart, and nothing in this world will ever change that!!
Be happy!
Love, Dad
From my mom to me:
Ashley Rae (my little A-Rae!),
You're all grown up and I have to tell you... you're awesome! I am so proud of you - you have no idea. I know my memories of you as you grew are my own special gift. And I truly treasure them. I really appreciate our relationship, even though sometimes I know I am a little demanding. I also know you have a very healthy idea of what it takes for a strong relationship to grow. You've observed relationships around you and for so long have had what I consider a very mature outlook that I feel confident you will be an outstanding wife. Craig is a very lucky man. And I feel certain he loves you completely. Just remember to treasure this gift you're giving to each other. Take special care because you know it can slip away from you when you're not taking proper care. Remember how important family is - you can always expect us to be there for you and Craig. Your happiness means the world to me. And remember:
I'll love you forever,
I'll like you for always.
As long as I'm living,
My baby you'll be.
[That slogan - from a children's book - is what I put on her special gift on rehearsal night... except I said "mother".]
Mom
From Kelly to both of us (on rehearsal night, I think?):
Ashley,
I can't imagine a more perfect sister-in-law. You are the sister I never had - our family is lucky to have you a part of it!
Craig,
I can't believe you found someone to put up with you! I miss living with you but I am so happy for the two of you. I love you so much!
Congratulations - the big event is FINALLY happening! I couldn't be happier - two of the best friends I could ever ask for!
Love you both!
Kelly
From my brothers to Craig:
Take good care of our sister or you will answer to us.
Love your brothers-in-law,
Taylor & Z-money
From Casey to Craig (on the wedding morning):
Craig,
I know you think Ashley is sappy but I think I may be even worse. I just wanted to tell you how important you are to my life. I am so excited to be getting a new big brother today. I know not much will really be changing today but it still feels really special to me. I am so happy for you two and I know everything will go just perfectly. Relax and just have a great day today.
Love your new little sister,
Casey
2 comments:
I am gonna go read your headboard post, or perhaps your tot school post again considering every other post you have posted in the last week has made me cry instantaneously. :)
I hope reading those letters helps you to remember just how much your family loves you - - both of you! I can't believe that was 6 years ago! Craig has more than fulfilled his "big brother" duties. I love that I can count on him anytime we need driving directions or house stuff to fix. He seriously always knows what to do. Lucky lady!
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