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As many of you know, my middle daughter was married this weekend. This was one of the happiest days of my life. Today, I can barely see through my blurry eyes. I am recalling all the advice I received as a mother-of-the-bride. Most of it was unsolicited and tended to make me feel like a total failure. However, this weekend, my daughter told me something entirely different. A snippet of her note to me:
Without you, I wouldn’t be the woman I am. Without you, I wouldn’t know what a real, true, and loving marriage is…
I have compiled my own Top Ten list of advice:
- When you don’t know what to say, say thanks.
- Don’t sweat the small stuff. So much of it is small stuff.
- Love much!
- Pee when you can.
- Family is who shows up.
- Invite the talent of those in your circle.
- Hydrate (see #4)
- Everything around you is an expression of love.
- Let people be nice to you.
- Love much! (That one bears repeating)
The day after, left overs, flowers, and snapshots.
Reflections on the Teche 
I’ve loved your pics here and on fb. Having just gone through a daughter’s wedding myself, your list really resonates. Esp 3, 5, and 8. (#4 is my constant motto, so not particular to weddings-heehee)
#10 – which you were surrounded by this glorious wedding weekend.
Yes, #10. Again and again. So lovely Margaret. So happy for you all.
I’ve loved seeing the pics! What a lovely day. And this list of advice is full of the important things, especially #10.
Awesome! Although I only have one daughter, I have four sons. You’re advice is equally if not more important when you are the Mother of the Groom!
I’ve enjoyed seeing your journey, the anticipation, the days of, and that after, including this part, Margaret. Such fun. My daughter & son-in-law’s anniversary is this week, and we remember their special day still with smiles, and lots of love, just as you shared. Perfect advice!
I’ve loved watching your total joy in this process. Even when things were challenging, you took it on with gusto. What a perfect ending to the process.
I love your advice, but oh my, that snippet from her letter to you is breathtaking. Thanks for sharing that.
A huge thanks for this list. I will be using it soon 🙂 Hugs to to the mother of the bride thanks for sharing.
A list that means a lot as I look forward to my daughter’s wedding in December.
I look forward to hearing all about it. Enjoy!
Great words of wisdom! I wonder what words I will have for my sons if they marry in the future (I am sure there will be some overlap).
Having a thought like that from your daughter is a magical feeling. The fan is such a great touch!