so bring your good times and laughter too...we're gonna celebrate your party with you

Friday evening we attended the rehearsal, which was held at Shady Wagon, a beautiful resort where many weddings are held.

This is the Bed and Breakfast on the grounds where the bride, groom and wedding party get ready and where the bride and groom spend their wedding night. I wished I could get pictures of the inside, it was unbelievably beautiful.

Mike and Jeremy waiting for the girls......

Jeremy and Loretta at rehearsal......

The geese and ducks wander the grounds adding a unique wildlife atmosphere. These two geese were so funny. During the rehearsal, they have the flower girl throw saltine crackers instead of flower petals. The geese do not bother the rehearsal at all, but boy when it is over they are there in a heartbeat, doing the cleanup. The grounds were so immaculate, I am wondering if they have a 24/7 Popper Scooper person???????

Mary Lou and Howard Lechler hosted rehearsal dinner at the Bloomsbury Bistro, in Raleigh.

Any and everyone who knows Mary Lou, knows she knows how to throw a party.

Here Mike enjoys a cocktail before the gourmet dinner.

OK Kelly, tell your dad that Ron (Jeremy's dad) so much loved dressing up, he is considering quitting the barge and getting an office job in Raleigh.....NOT! However, both he and Terry looked wonderful and had a great week!

The menu got a little crumpled in my purse, but I had to post it so you all could see why I am still not dieting....LOL

I chose the Rack of Lamb and it was SO good!!!!!

Here Jeremy displays his new "Engagement Rolex". When he and Loretta started discussing their engagement he told her if she got a diamond he should get a Rolex....kidding of course.

Addie Alberti (Loretta's mom) presented the gift to Jeremy. She said she knew when Loretta started saving her pennies she knew she was in love.

It was pretty emotional......

Here Mary Lou gives her little spiel on the many years she spent guiding Jer.....Both Howard and Mary Lou were wonderful role models!

This one is for you Cheryl.....The other wonderful host, Howard Lechler.

And here is Jeremy with the "Groom's Cake".....I think it was quadruple chocolate, a little rich but better than the Armadillo Groom's Cake on Steel Magnolias....I think!

Stay tuned for the wedding and farewell breakfast.....to be continued