number 26!

 Happy Anniversary, Rudy!

I've got YOU on my mind.

Rudy's Best Man shakily withdrew the boxed wedding ring from his vest pocket. We could hear the ring bouncing within the walls of the box. Rudy and I looked at each other. Then we laughed.

After receiving the ring, Rudy turned toward me. Smiled. I stood there, looking down. At the bouquet I was holding. I managed to glide my left hand toward Rudy so he was able to place the marriage band on my ring finger. He laughed while trying to slip the ring onto my finger. The ring jiggled in his nervous fingers. I laughed, too, nervously. He held my hand for a minute. We both looked at the ring and smiled.

"The ring signifies unity," the Pastor clarified.
Rudy smiled. I kept wetting my lips, rubbing them together. I was shaking, just a little. Feeling anxious. Nervous.
I turned toward my Maid-of-Honor to receive the ring from her. I think I should have put the bouquet down or given it to someone. But I just held on to it in my right hand. Held it up while I tried to place the ring on Rudy's left ring finger. I couldn't push it on. I had to use my right hand, flowers and all, to steady his hand. 
We smiled at the immaturity of it all.

"By the authority invested in me, I pronounce that you are now husband and wife. You may kiss the bride."

And, kiss Rudy did! He wanted to make it very passionate, but I wasn't having it.  All I could think about was that my parents were watching. I pulled away. Giggled. Rudy laughed, lightly. Smiled at me. Then we hugged. We turned. And faced the small crowd of family and friends who joined us during our unifying moment.