Nathan & Elizabeth: an Endless Love Chapter 123, a when calls the heart fanfic

Chapter One Hundred Twenty-Three: The Grant Wedding Part III: The Ceremony

The Eighth of June dawned crisp and clear, as though God were signaling the perfect day that was yet to come.

First came the Morning's soft breezes, preparing for the arrival of the Bride, lightly tousling the calm Lake waters, whispering through the downy soft carpet of meadow surrounding the Lake, and lifting up choruses of multi-colored birds, flitting from one tree to the other. The Birds chirping their cheerful songs through tireless hooked and pointed beaks.

Rip, George's dog, however, preferring to chase the wispy hummingbirds, who were tirelessly flapping their wings fifteen beats a second, gliding and flapping through the warm air, busily using their long slender beaks to lovingly pass Nature's sweet nectar to and fro from blossoming flower to blossoming flower, hovering just far enough beyond the dog's intent gaze to stay safe.

Soon came the warmth of the Noon Sun, slowly rising to its highest point, chasing the Morning away, in all its glory. The Sun's most intense rays took over and warmed the air and water below it, causing Lake Granda to erupt and glisten into millions of bright dancing diamonds, that skimmed languishly over the water's surface, in a dance of pure heat.

A warm and sultry afternoon followed, with the Sun traveling lazily across the brilliant sky, leaving calm breezes in its wake, along with the effervescent movement of brilliant sparkling water, leaving a balmy, crisp, and vibrant afternoon for all, providing the perfect setting for eighteen gorgeous Sailboats navigating via their massive white sails, through the relatively calm waters of Lake Granda, carrying a very large number of excited Wedding Guests as passengers.

But as all good things must come to an end, the languid and splendid Afternoon slowly morphed into Evening, a spectacular Evening that was a gift from God, ordered specifically for this Bride and Groom. At His command, the still brilliant sun began its descent, lowering itself in the sky above, carefully traversing its nightly journey to slumber, but with yet much splendor left.

Perhaps saving its full glory for the Service to come, beginning to paint its myriad of artist's colors splendidly across the sky, only to come to its magnificent crescendo at just the right moment…

The air was filled with sweet expectations and glorious goodness.

The air was filled with love.

For it was on this most auspicious and beautiful Summer day of the young Season, Family and Friends from far and wide had gathered for the singular purpose of witnessing the union of two very special people, deeply loved by all.

Even Rex and Reggie were there!

Allie and Jack had insisted.

"But they're Family. They have to be at our Wedding! We can't leave them out!" pleaded Allie.

"Pease! Wex and Weggie! Pease!" cried Jack, with tears in his eyes.

So, Rex and Reggie traveled to the Lodge with the Children, and spent the afternoon exploring with Rip and welcoming Guests!

Promptly at a Quarter past Six, the Stringed Ensemble of Seven, including a First and Second Violin, Two Violas, Two Cellos, and a Bass, took their seats on the front left-hand side, and softly began to play Mendelssohn's Wedding March, with their classical notes wafting through the countryside. (*65)

As quickly as they had started, a kind-looking, grandfatherly, and before unseen, Scottish Bagpiper appeared from the right, and lifted his Great Highland Bagpipes, fluidly joining the music. He stood singularly on a precipice overlooking Lake Granda, with the subtle breeze gently blowing his white hair about his perfectly angled Glengarry Bonnet, and swaying his dark Tartan Kilt.

Lord Anthony was amazed to realize that from what he was seeing, they could have actually been sitting in the bonny hills of Scotland, and never known the difference.

Unknown to Nathan, the Bagpiper had been added to the Wedding as a surprise gift from the Bride to her Groom, honoring his Scottish and Irish heritage.

The many Guests were seated, listening to the beautiful musical mix of Stringed Instruments and Bagpipes, filling the air, amazed at the magical setting they were each and every one blessed to be a part of.

Their surroundings reflected the great love and giving nature of the Bride and Groom perfectly, not only because they owned the Land and Lake, but because somehow this rustic yet slightly elegant outdoor setting spoke of the Couple.

In the Flowers they chose, in their attention to detail merging their Wedding adornments to fit the land without overwhelming the nature around them, and in wanting to share their great love and care with their much-loved Guests.

The Bride and Groom's provision of the Sailboat excursions was not simply offering each Guest a Sailing journey, but a gift, one of wonder and joy, making each person feel special, causing them to reflect on their own great loves. They had been given a romantic surprise themselves and they were very grateful for the rekindling of love and excitement the gift had brought back to their own lives.

And now an authentic Scottish Bagpiper!

No one could remember ever being so excited over a Wedding, wondering what wonderful thing was going to happen next.

Everything was natural; everything was as it was meant to be, beautiful and rustic, and oh so slightly elegant.

At Twenty past Six, the Pastor and Associate Pastor walked to the front from the right side and stood with folded hands in the very center of the Gazebo, just behind the Kneeling Bench placed there for the Bride and Groom.

With the music still playing, Nathaniel proudly led the Bride's Mother down the center path to her front-row seat on the left-hand side, beside Lord Townsend and Godfrey.

Grace looked stunning in her simple Purple Silk Gown and her Diamond Drop Earrings. She wore a Diamond Bracelet, and of course, her very large Diamond Rings.

Her gown was gathered at a dropped waist, accented only by a single cord of the same fabric. The neckline was batteau, curving gently around her shoulders. The long sleeves were tight and wrist length.

There was a regal air about her, as she carried herself like Royalty, but there was a difference too. For finally, after a very long time of going through the motions, she was truly happy, and that had been missing for the longest time.

Somewhere along the way, it seemed that as more money came in, the Thatchers' love, although still there, grew dormant. She realized now that they had left their love unnurtured. And so, it had withered, leaving a great distance between Husband and Wife.

But somehow, the love shown between her Daughter and her Fiancee, and the great love Nathan's parents also showed for each other, even after overcoming all their troubles, had left a great impact.

So, William and Grace reevaluated their lives. And by doing so, they found each other, and their great love for the other, all over again.

All that had steered William and her back to where they needed to be in their own Lives.

Back to where they started, wondrously in love.

For that Grace was most grateful, and that gratitude showed in her elegant face as pure happiness.

Next, Lee escorted the Groom's Mother down the center path to sit by her Husband, Archie, who was already sitting in the front row of the Groom's side, by George, who was told he was now Family.

Madelyne looked every bit as beautiful as Grace but in a less formal way. Her striking earthy beauty and her calm, warm demeanor drew people to her, not away. Her Gown was a very simple style, A-line in cut, flattering her tall frame. The color was the Bride's favorite French Blue, which also happened to be her own as well.

She accessorized with simple Pearl Studs and a single Pearl Bracelet that had been her Mother's. On her left hand was a wide gold Wedding Band, the one her Husband had originally given her so many years ago. The one she had cherished through all their joyous and most difficult times, even when it had been stored away.

She was strong, and she had been through much hardship in her life.

But her later life was coming together in the happiness she had always craved and somehow had managed to give her Children in spite of their harrowing circumstances.

She was the salt of the earth, and now that her Son had truly forgiven his Father, they were ready to move on as an Adult Family, with healthy grown-up relationships, still just as important and precious to each of them.

Perhaps even more so, because after having experienced great loss, each now had forgiven and fully appreciated the other.

Her face literally exploded with happiness for her Son.

Archie stood as she arrived, and he kissed her as though she were his Bride, causing her to smile with love for this Husband she had almost lost forever.

Next came the pounding of hooves in the distance, and all eyes turned.

The scene that was before them was out of a Story Book.

As they looked up, they saw a Sea of Red, Officers immaculate in their Dress Uniforms, surrounding the Groom who looked every bit a Prince, escorting him to his Bride.

Nathan was amazed as he glimpsed their many Guests, and the Bagpiper, whom he thought he had imagined hearing in the distance.

The horses came to a full stop together, and in one fell fluid motion, the Officers dismounted in unison.

"Attention," ordered the Commissioner.

The Command cut through the Evening Air, creating utter silence even among the Guests, leaving only the sounds of Nature surrounding them.

The Men stood rigid to their Commissioner's Command, not moving a single muscle.

"Wedding Rank and File," ordered the Commissioner, with the slightest of smiles.

The Men then formed a single file behind the Groom.

Still at attention, not marching, but walking deliberately and purposefully down the right side of the Guests, straight to the Front of the Gazebo, where the Groom stopped, and the other six Men angled behind him, out toward the Guests.

Most of the crowd recognized Commissioner Harold Blake, Judge Bill Avery, Superintendents Raymond Baslow, and Shade Simpkins, as well as Constables Aaron Latham and Gabriel Kinslow. Bill and Aaron were now Hope Valley's own, and the others had often visited.

The Men looked dashing in their Dress Uniforms. The Red of their Dress Serges stood out and contrasted sharply against the brilliant blue of Lake Granda. The setting Sun shone on their golden epaulets and buttons, ricocheting flashes of light out into the universe, emboldening their authority as one with Nature.

At that moment, the Men watched as the Maids and Matrons of Honor started walking down the left side of the Guests, starting with Laura Campbell the youngest, followed by Julie Thatcher, Viola Thatcher, Rosemary Coulter, Adeline Avery, and Felicity Latham, who all angled out behind her, forming a mirror image of the Men.

Each was dressed in a shade of the Wedding Flowers, Laura in French Blue, Julie in Lavender, Viola in Purple, Rosemary in Pink, Adeline in Rose, and Felicity in Fuschia.

Their Gowns were styled simply of multi-layer voile that fluttered softly in the breeze, out around them.

The Flowers they carried, were a combination of all the Wedding Flowers. However, they were not Bouquets, but instead, simple sheaves of the stemmed flowers in their natural state with their stems gathered together by a single wide satin ribbon corresponding to each matching dress. The Ladies held them naturally, laying in their arms.

Each of the Bride's Attendants wore their hair down, held back by the matching antique Hair Combs Grace had found and gifted them.

Each and every one of them looked stunningly beautiful, and the joy they felt over this Union was proudly shown on each and every jubilant face.

As soon as the Ladies were in their positions, the music subtly transitioned into 'Canon In D Major' by Johann Pachelbel. (*66)

And the crowd looked up to see little Frederic, looking so handsome and dressed in full Mountie Uniform, escorting Arabella Townsend, the Bride's niece, down the center path.

Arabella had a crown of Flowers on her head with ribbon streamers floating out behind her. She was dressed in a precious Floral Print Taffeta Dress that had every color the Maids and Matrons of Honor were wearing, along with hints of the lightest gold. The Empire Dress hit midway on her calf, showing her little white tights and white leather Ballerina Slippers.

The Flower Girl couldn't have possibly looked more adorable.

She was carrying a medium-sized Basket of Flower Petals and was dropping them as profusely as she could, the entire way down the path, with Frederic holding her steady!

There were smiles and whispers of worrying she might run out, but it seemed that the petals were magically endless, as the sweet pair made it all the way to the front.

There they curtsied and bowed to the Groom, who although very surprised, smiled lovingly back at them. Then they split with Frederic going to his Father on the right-hand side, and Arabella going to her Father on the left-hand side.

The curtsey had been Arabella's idea and being from England, the Child had insisted on it. She had painstakingly taught Frederic to bow properly. The charm and sweetness accompanying their unexpected actions brought oohs and aahs from just about everyone!

Next came Allie carrying her spray of Lavender Roses and Miniature Orchids, just like the Bride's but only smaller, in one arm and hand, while holding Little Jack's hand with her other.

Nathan marveled at the sight of his two Children. This was his Family.

And now, in minutes, it would be official.

Jack looked so handsome in his new Mountie Uniform with an immaculate ink-free Serge brought from Headquarters by the Commissioner himself, looking happy and content with his Allie, smiling and waving at people as he practically skipped down the aisle.

Allie's beauty and carriage stunned her Father. She was stunning and confident. His little girl was indeed growing up.

She was wearing a dress of ivory taffeta with a wide, pale gold cumberbund much like the Bride's, although no one could know that yet. Her taffeta skirt was covered with layers of the palest sheer golden voile that danced in movement as she walked.

She wore a gold bracelet on her right arm, which was holding her sheaf of Flowers tied with a wide light gold satin ribbon.

Her ecru tights and ecru leather Ballerina Slippers reminded everyone that with her inherent poise and tall stature, she could easily be a real Ballerina pirouetting down the path, instead of just gracefully walking it.

A gold and crystal headband held her hair half-back, and she looked more beautiful and grownup than her Father had ever seen her.

Nathan swallowed hard with pride, as Allie brought Jack to Bill, who lifted him up in his arms.

Allie then came to her Father and reached up, with him bending down to greet her, and although surprised, his Daughter gently kissed him on the cheek, touching him deep within.

Nathan drew her to him and hugged her as though no one else was there, and then smiling joyfully, she quickly moved to her place in front of Laura, and to the left of where the Bride would be.

There wasn't a dry eye in the crowd, except for perhaps the Groom, who was desperately trying to stand strong. But even his eyes were glistening.

The music increased in volume, signaling the arrival of the Bride.

The Guests all stood and turned.

Nathan was stalwart, but his heart was thumping with anxious and joyous anticipation.

Suddenly in his distant view, stood the most beautiful Woman he had ever seen, and Nathan breathed in sharply.

"Are you ready?" whispered her Father.

"More than ready," she smiled back.

And then she caught a glance of Nathan and her heart sang.

"Let's go," she whispered, with a broad smile. "And let's hurry!"

"We can't! Your Mother's watching!"

He led his beloved Daughter down the Path, and stopped momentarily before they began their walk, then with a knowing look they compromised, walking at a much faster pace than Grace would have preferred, but a much lesser pace than Elizabeth preferred, for it was apparent to this Father, that the Bride needed her Groom.

Nathan was barely breathing as he watched his Lisabeth in her exquisite Gown, in the palest ivory tinged with the palest shade of gold, floating toward him like a vision, he knew on the arm of her Father.

But for both the Groom and the Bride, no one else was present. Their eyes locked and they saw only each other.

She was carrying a very large spray of her favorite long-stemmed Lavender Roses, interspersed with long stems of tiny Lavender Orchids, all tied in a wide pale gold satin ribbon slightly darker than the ivory of her Gown but matching her sash exactly. The Roses and Orchids looked as though they had just been picked and laid in the Bride's arms without arrangement or fuss.

The Bride's Gown had long sleeves of pale ivory lace that came down on her hands, and a low bodice neckline of lace with scalloped edges that came to a point on her clavicle.

The lightest gold wide satin in a cumberbund sash, wider than the Groom had ever seen, encircled her tiny waist, and the whole Gown was truly elegant in its simplicity and unique structure.

The slightly full skirt in Satin fell into a top portion that cupped the fabric around her just where her hands fell, making the remaining skirt fabric appear to form a second inner skirt that fell underneath the top layer, all the way down in the front and the back, traipsing out around her, appliqued and edged in broad lace forming a two-foot train.

This was the Gown Elizabeth had dreamed of, and her Mother had miraculously found.

It was perhaps the most beautiful Bridal Gown any of the Guests had ever seen. It was meant to be hers. Gasps and whispers were rampant with awe. And every Woman there wished she could just touch it.

The Bride truly was resplendent.

Her hair was pulled back into a low chignon as she had worn to the Mountie Ball, and he had loved so much. It was held in place by her Granda's priceless antique Diamond comb, both in value and sentimentality.

The Bride's only other adornments were her golden Wedding Pearls, necklace, bracelet, and drop earrings, which her Groom had lovingly given her, to celebrate their Wedding.

She had fastened her Grandmother's Diamond Cross to her strand of Pearls as a pendant, and she had attached her Great Grandmother's Diamond Earrings to the two ribbons hanging from her Flowers, fulfilling the Thatcher tradition of every Bride wearing these two heirlooms.

Given the pale gold tinge of her ivory gown, her Groom now understood why she had fallen in love with those particular Pearls. He also now understood why she had changed her mind and wanted him attired in his Dress Uniform.

About her, there was the palest hint of gold, and as the golden sun began to fill the sky, its light fell about her and highlighted the Gown, making it come alive, glistening with flashes of golden shades surrounding her as she walked to him.

He had never seen her look so beautiful, so elegant, so exquisite, or so radiant.

She simply looked like a Princess.

And she was about to become his Wife.

As they reached the end of the Path and neared the Groom, William took her hand and placed it in Nathan's, who dipped his head in thanks, but he could only really see his Bride.

"You look breathtaking," he whispered.

"You look dashing," she whispered back.

And although no one knew exactly how it happened, suddenly the Bride was embracing her Groom, and he was embracing her. It was clear no one else existed for them. Just like that day long ago, in the middle of the street. Everyone's mind went back there, reliving it. Well, that was very romantic, but this? Unbelievably, even more so!

When they separated, they really didn't, because they kept facing each other, never letting go of each other's hands.

"The Bagpiper?" he asked in a low voice.

"Happy Wedding!" she smiled.

Their faces were jubilant.

"Are you ready?" he asked softly.

"Completely."

And with the sun setting ever so slightly beyond them in a majestic orchestra of brilliant colors, the beaming Couple turned to their Officiants to be wed, standing just inside the Gazebo, separated from everyone and everything, but God and each other.

The Pastor began…

"Dearly Beloved, we are gathered together today in the sight of God, His Majestic Handiwork, and these witnesses, to join Nathan Alexander Grant and Elizabeth Rose Thatcher Thornton in holy matrimony; which is an honorable estate, instituted of God, since the beginning of time. It is not to be entered into unadvisedly or lightly. Therefore, if anyone can show just cause why these two may not be lawfully joined together, let them speak now or forever hold their

peace." (*67)

The moment of silence that ensued was beautiful in its simplicity.

"You have come together this Day so that the Lord may strengthen and seal your love, binding you together as one. In the presence of Almighty God, these Ministers, your Families, and Friends, I ask you this single question."

"Do you both wholeheartedly come willingly and without reservation to be united as one?"

"We do."

"This evening as you join yourselves in Marriage, there is a vast unknown future stretching out before you. The possibilities and potentials of your Married Life are great and limitless. The task now falls on your shoulders to choose your values and make your dreams come true. Our prayer is that you both grow and nurture a priceless love that will always give you great joy, as well as a passion for living, that in turn provides you with the energy and patience to gladly face the responsibilities, as well as the many blessings of life together."

"You come as individuals, but you will leave as Husband and Wife, blending your lives, expanding your family ties, and embarking upon the grandest adventure of humankind. The story of your life together is yours alone to write."

Then Associate Pastor Trevon Williams then began to read the Scripture First Corinthians, Chapter 13… (*68)

3 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.

2 And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing.

3 And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing.

4 Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up,

5 Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil;

6 Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth;

7 Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.

8 Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away.

9 For we know in part, and we prophesy in part.

10 But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.

11 When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things.

12 For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.

13 And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity.

The Pastor: "Let us Pray."

And as the Groom helped his Bride to kneel. Elizabeth folded her hands together and Nathan folded his around hers as they prayed together. They didn't know it, but the picture of them praying was a deeply profound one, for no one could glance at their entwined hands and not know this love, their love, was very real, and even tangible.

Nathaniel, Rosemary, and Viola then joined together, putting all their being into singing "The Lord's Prayer." Nathaniel's rich baritone, Rosemary's strong soprano, and Viola's smooth contralto rang out in exquisite harmony, as the treasured words of this greatest prayer brought this outdoor congregation to worship. (*69)

Our Father which art in heaven,
Hallowed be Thy name
Thy kingdom come
Thy will be done
On earth
As it is in heaven

Give us this day our daily bread,
And forgive our debts
As we forgive our debtors
Lead us not into temptation
And deliver us from evil.

For Thine is the kingdom
And the power
And the glory forever.

Amen.

After, Nathan tenderly helped his Bride to stand for their vows.

The Pastor: "Let us begin. Please repeat after me," and he turned to the Groom.

I Nathan Alexander Grant take thee, Elizabeth Rose Thatcher Thornton to be my Wedded Wife

I Nathan Alexander Grant take thee Elizabeth Rose Thatcher Thornton to be my Wedded Wife.

To have and to hold from this day forward

For better for worse

For richer for poorer

In sickness and in health

To love and to cherish

Till death do us part

According to God's Holy Ordinance

And thereto I plight thee my troth.

Nathan's voice was strong and clear, and he never once took his eyes away from his Bride's, giving her his very soul.

The Pastor: "Please repeat after me," and he turned to the Bride.

I Elizabeth Rose Thatcher Thornton take thee, Nathan Alexander Grant, to be my Wedded Husband

To have and to hold from this day forward

For better for worse

For richer for poorer

In sickness and in health

To love and to cherish

Till death do us part

According to God's Holy Ordinance

And thereto I plight thee my troth.

And thereto I plight thee my troth. (*70)

Elizabeth's voice was soft but firm and clear, and she never once took her eyes away from his, giving him her very soul.

Pastor "Please now make your special promises to each other based on your favorite Poem, which happens to be the same for both of you. Ralph Waldo Emerson's 'My Wish for You.'" (*71)

Elizabeth, I promise you comfort on difficult days.

Nathan, I promise you smiles when sadness intrudes.

Elizabeth, I promise you rainbows to follow the clouds.

Nathan, I promise you laughter to kiss your lips.

Elizabeth, I promise you sunsets to warm your heart.

Nathan, I promise you hugs when spirits sag.

Elizabeth, I promise you beauty for your eyes to see.

Nathan, I promise you friendships to brighten your being.

Elizabeth, I promise you faith so that you can believe.

Nathan, I promise you confidence when you doubt.

Elizabeth, I promise you courage to know yourself.

Nathan, I promise you patience to accept the truth.

Elizabeth, I promise you love to complete your life.

And in unison: And all these things we promise and pledge one to the other in perfect love.

Associate Pastor: "Please stand and join the Bride and Groom in their favorite Hymn, 'Love Divine, All Loves Excelling.'" And for the Groom, the Bagpiper again joined the String Ensemble. (*72)

Love divine, all loves excelling,
Joy of Heav'n to earth come down;
Fix in us thy humble dwelling;
All thy faithful mercies crown!
Jesus, Thou art all compassion,
Pure unbounded love Thou art;
Visit us with Thy salvation,
Enter every trembling heart.

Breathe, O breathe Thy loving Spirit
Into every troubled breast!
Let us all in Thee inherit;
Let us find that second rest.
Take away our bent to sinning;
Alpha and Omega be;
End of faith, as its beginning,
Set our hearts at liberty.

Come, Almighty to deliver,
Let us all Thy life receive;
Suddenly return, and never,
Nevermore Thy temples leave.
Thee we would be always blessing,
Serve Thee as Thy hosts above,
Pray and praise Thee without ceasing,
Glory in Thy perfect love.

Finish, then, Thy new creation;
Pure and spotless let us be;
Let us see Thy great salvation
Perfectly restored in Thee;
Changed from glory into glory,
Till in Heav'n we take our place,
Till we cast our crowns before Thee,
Lost in wonder, love, and praise.

Pastor: "Let us Pray." "Dear Father, we now ask Your greatest Blessing on the exchanging of marital rings, the golden circle that has no beginning and no end, the symbol of the sacred covenants being made before You. May these rings let everyone know of these most holy covenants, and let them always be loving reminders to the ones wearing them of the deep and abiding love they share, one with the other. In Your most righteous name, forevermore. Amen."

The Commissioner handed the Groom his Bride's ring.

Please repeat after me, Nathan.

With this ring, I thee wed

With my body I thee worship

And with all my worldly goods I thee endow

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen.

As Nathan took off Elizabeth's Engagement Ring and placed it inside her new Diamond Wedding Band, shock came over her face at seeing the new Diamond Bands, then sheer joy, as she loved them! Both smiled jubilantly at each other, him flashing her favorite crooked grin, as he formally lifted her hand to his lips and kissed her now joined Engagement/Wedding Rings.

Allie handed the Bride her Groom's ring.

Please repeat after me, Elizabeth.

With this ring, I thee wed

With my body I thee worship

And with all my worldly goods I thee endow

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen.

She placed Nathan's Wedding Ring on his long, left ring finger, and could hardly contain herself as she formally lifted his strong hand to her lips and kissed his new Wedding Ring.

Associate Pastor: "Let us pray." "Our Father, Lord and Saviour, we ask that You always be at the very center of the new lives You are crafting as One. Let this Husband and Wife know the true paths to elevate their deepest love for each other and help them strive to always show supreme kindness one to the other. May the Lord bless this Union with His richest blessings and may He bountifully bless you both in all the days of your lives, filling you, and yours, with His perfect joy. Forever and ever, Amen."

This was real and in mere seconds, they would be Husband and Wife.

The Pastor: "Those whom God hath joined together in Holy Matrimony, let no Man put asunder. In so much as Nathan Alexander Grant and Elizabeth Rose Thatcher Thornton have consented together in Holy Wedlock, and have witnessed the same before God and this company, having given and pledged their faith each to the other, and having declared the same by the giving and receiving of rings, by the power vested in me by the Province of Alberta, I hereby pronounce that you are Husband and Wife, together. To seal the covenants you have made on this most important day, Chief Inspector Grant, you may now kiss your Bride!" (*73)

And at that exact moment, the Sunset erupted into a plethora of the brightest blues, purples, pinks, and roses, all etched in shimmering gold, stretching across the sky in a panoramic explosion, as though God, Himself, had painted a splendid Masterpiece just for this very moment.

The Groom kissed his Bride as he had wanted to since he had first laid eyes on her coming out of their Lodge, walking down the path toward him. Loud clapping and cheering heightened to a fever pitch! Their deep, passionate kiss, which was returned by his Bride with equal fervor, left no doubt in anyone's mind, that these two were perfectly made for each other and totally meant to be!

The Pastor: "Ladies and Gentleman, I ask that you please remain seated for a second, very important part of this Wedding Ceremony."

The Ministers moved aside.

Judge Avery stepped out and handed Jack to Nathan to hold, as Elizabeth held out her arms to Allie.

He then stood where the Ministers had previously stood.

"Every marriage forms a Family of two, but this marriage is blessed beyond others, because they already are a Family of four, with two amazing and beautiful Children."

"Ladies & Gentlemen, if you'll bear with us, we have a Court Proceeding to complete, and for such, I officially call this Court to Order."

"Please raise your right hands. Does everyone swear, to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth, so help me God?"

"We do," came from every one, with a "Me, too!" from Jack.

That was exactly when Rex and Reggie, who had been laying on the Lodge Front Porch realized all four of their Family were now standing in that Gazebo, which could only mean one thing. They were surely meant to be there, too!

So, the two Pups took off down the path at breakneck speed, coming to a full stop at the Gazebo, quickly sitting, on their best behavior, by either side of the ones they loved.

To say there was laughter, would be putting it mildly, but the Judge was unfazed, and so were the smiling Grants. And of course, Allie and Jack were thrilled that their beloved Rex and Reggie were going to have front row seats for their adoptions.

"Court may not be orderly, but it is now in session!"

More laughter.

"Nathan Grant, is it your intention to adopt Jack Thornton, Jr. and Elizabeth Grant, is it your intention to adopt Alexandra Rose Grant?"

"Yes, your Honor, it is," the Couple responded in unison.

"Will you meet their needs in every way, financially, medically, educationally, emotionally, and spiritually?

"Yes, we will."

"Will you also provide a loving home for these Children?"

"Yes, we will."

"Allie, do you wish for Elizabeth Grant to become your adoptive and legal Mother in every way?"

"Yes, Uncle Bill, I mean Your Honor."

That brought a smile to the Judge's face.

"Jack, do you wish for Nathan Grant to become your adoptive and legal Father in every way?"

"Daddy," yelled Jack, hugging Nathan with all his might.

"I'd say that's a rousing endorsement of yes!" laughed Bill.

The Judge then handed papers across the table for all four to sign, allowing Jack to scribble as his mark, which ended up taking most of the page!

"I hereby decree that Elizabeth Grant is now the legal Mother of Alexandra Rose Grant, along with her Son, now known as Jack Thornton Grant. I also hereby decree that Nathan Grant is now the legal Father of Jack Thornton Grant, along with his Daughter, Alexandra Rose Grant. I also hereby decree that Nathan and Elizabeth Grant together are the full parents of both said Children."

"I now decree these adoptions are complete and irrevocable for life."

"And by the Power vested in me, I joyfully declare Nathan, Elizabeth, Allie, and Jack to be the Grant Family together…"

"And Wex and Weggie Gants too!" interrupted Jack.

People were now softly laughing so hard they were almost shaking, trying their best not to show it!

"I stand corrected and hereby amend: by the Power vested in me, I joyfully declare Nathan, Elizabeth, Allie, Jack, Rex, and Reggie to be the Grant Family together! And just like your Parents did a few moments ago, it's time for kisses and hugs!" declared the Judge.

The entire crowd was now crying, well sobbing, for real, as Allie kissed both her Father, new Mother, and new Little Brother, and Jack kissed his Mother, new Father, and new Big Sister; then the Parents embraced and kissed their Children both again, and then ended up kissing each other again with tears of pure joy in their eyes! And the Pups were joining in, not wanting to be left out of the love, to which the Children happily complied, giving them kisses and hugs as well.

For the Guests were experiencing the great and intimate privilege of seeing a Family being born before their very eyes. A Family of four, well six to be correct, full of love for each other, excited over what life would bring together. And so thankful for taking the journey together!

Bill stepped back as the Grant Family stepped forward with Rex and Reggie, and the Pastor came back to the front side.

"Ladies and Gentlemen, so that I may preclude any possible correction from Master Grant, it is my distinct honor and privilege to present to you Chief Inspector and Mrs. Nathan Grant and their Children, Allie Grant and Jack Thornton Grant as well as their Pups, Rex and Reggie Grant!"

Nathan, still holding Jack, who was grinning broadly, and Elizabeth still with her arms around Allie, stopped smiling long enough to kiss again, and their Guests literally re-erupted with joy, clapping thunderously for the new Couple and Family standing before them.

As the Recessional Music started, without Nathan and Elizabeth even knowing, a surprise Honor Guard was formed in front of them, all the way to the end of their Guests' seats.

"Perfect Two Lines!"

"Halt…Center Face!"

"Present…Sabers!"

"Arch…Sabers!"

"Are you ready?" Nathan asked his Family.

"Ready!" "Weddy Daddy!"

And Nathan led his Bride and Children, while still carrying Jack, joyously through the long arch, followed by their happy and faithful Pups, Rex and Reggie proudly trotting along behind. A true Family Affair!

But of course, the two Mounties at the very end had closed their sabers down to cross at their waist level, demanding a "Kiss for Passage!" which thrilled Jack beyond no end!

Nathan and Elizabeth turned to face each other as Nathan was already holding her closely, and he bent to kiss his Wife.

Archie grabbed Jack and William grabbed Allie, so they wouldn't be in the middle of what was coming next, trying their best to also steer Rex and Reggie out of the way.

The Guests couldn't contain themselves! What a Wedding! One like they'd never experienced, but better in every way!

And that's when the unexpected happened, at least for the Bride and Groom!

An absolute flurry raining tons of Rice and tons of Rose Petals inundated them, coming from every direction.

"Yep, the Rose Petals are soft, but gotta' love this Rice!" shouted Bill.

Needless to say, he was not the only one with Rice! It was literally raining Rice.

The Mounties were exceptionally merciless, and there were an awful lot of Mounties, who were all backing up the Judge to the hilt.

"What did you do, Bill? Buy out a factory!" yelled the Groom, with head and body lowered over Elizabeth, trying his best to shield her!

The Couple was deluged from every angle, without any mercy at all, as they ran to their Lodge for cover.

Nathan scooped his Bride up and carried her over the Threshold, with Rice falling everywhere, kicking the huge door behind them closed and locking it, although he knew this would only buy them a few minutes.

They both were breathless and covered in Rice and Rose Petals, but neither cared.

No words were needed.

They met each other's lips, experiencing their very first, very long, and deep private kiss as Husband and Wife - intimate, intense, romantic, passionate, and absolutely everything.

Suddenly the clapping outside got louder and louder and they realized they were caught.

"Not yet, once more, Darling? Please…" she asked breathlessly.

"You, my Darling, don't ever have to ask!" he answered in a low, rough voice full of emotion.

When they finally pulled apart and straightened themselves, and although both would have preferred to stay, they opened the door and joyfully faced their Guests, racing to them over the grass to receive their many heartfelt Congratulations and Well Wishes!

But not before stopping midway for one more moment of intimacy.

"Nathan, we're married!" beamed his Wife, as she placed her right hand on his chest.

He held up her left hand, which he was already holding, so she could see her Wedding Rings.

"Yes, my Love, that's exactly what this says!"

"I don't know how you did this, but I love it. I couldn't love my Wedding Ring more!"

Then holding up his own hand, flashing his crooked grin, "And this, too!"

With people quickly gathering all around them, Husband and Wife could do nothing but find each other's lips once more…

Then as the Groom twirled his Bride round and round on their beautiful grounds with her Wedding Gown flowing out beautifully behind her, they incredulously shouted to the top of their lungs, "We're married! We're really married!"

"And every single thing was perfect…" whispered the Bride, as he tenderly lowered her to the ground.

"I wouldn't change a thing," concurred the Groom. "Not a single thing."

For Love had been given free rein, and it had taken over, resulting in the most beautiful Wedding anyone had ever been a part of.

The Grant Wedding, unique to this Bride and Groom, was more than they had ever imagined.

Exciting, real, romantic, heartfelt, meaningful, memorable, poignant, spiritual, and most of all so very authentically them.

Creating special moments that would belong to them alone and stay in their hearts forever…

(*65) "Theme of the Wedding March," from the Mendelssohn's Incidental Music, Ein Summernachtstraum, Op. 61., Felix Mendelssohn, 1843, Public Domain.

(*66) "Canon In D Major," by Johann Pachelbel, composed 1680-90, published Early 20th Century, Public Domain

(*67, 70, and 73) Wedding Script Samples, Moments & Milestones, Public Domain

(*68) King James Bible, I Corinthians 13:1-13, Public Domain

(*69) The Lord's Prayer in Song, from 1870-1885 Collection, Library of Congress, Public Domain

(*71) Ralph Waldo Emerson (1802-1882), "This Is My Wish for You," written in the mid-1800s, Public Domain

(*72) Love Divine, All Loves Excelling, Charles Wesley, 1747, Public Domain