Happy Monday!

Today we received our pro-shots from Shaun - what a fantastic start to the week! My to-do list went out the window as the slideshow kept flicking over on our TV all evening - WOW there are some fantastic memories there - and some I hadn't seen yet like when Trav and the boys were getting ready. We're really looking forward to looking through them all properly over the next week (to our wedding music playlist!). I even convinced Trav to give our dance a go in the kitchen this evening, we remembered most of it too!

To the special women in my life

This journey was made all the more meaningful and enjoyably by the women who surrounded me. How can I possibly put all my feelings into words? I can only do my best to let you know how you are appreciated...

Thank you Mum

My hero. Mum there's so much to love about you. Apart from having the absolute biggest heart in the whole wide world, you are truly the most generous and selfless person I have ever met. I have had so much fun preparing with you over the last 2 years and will treasure these memories forever. Who else's Mum got dressed up as the Queen of Hearts at their bridal shower? As I continue to grow I hope that I can learn enough from you to make my daughter just as proud as you make me, I love you.

Thank you Marian

I am so honoured to officially be a part of your clan! Your support, ideas and love are so very important to me. There's still so much I know you can teach me and I look forward to our friendship continuing to grow. I know I can rely on you for advice and as our marriage and family grows, I'm sure I will! Marian, there's nothing you can't solve with the POP of a bottle and the clink of glasses.

Thank you Deborah

There is no one else we'd choose to stand up at the altar with us, officiating our wedding vows. It really made our wedding day all the more special knowing such a close friend had been there with us along the way, creating our ceremony. I know our friendship will continue to grow over the coming years, distance won't be a barrier for us.

Thank you Louise

You helped keep me on track if my worries got the better of me and your advice from your own experiences was always received gladly. Now I'm also married and I can appreciate everything you said. There wasn't one minute of our engagement or our wedding day that I took forgranted and I think this is why I can relive it all so clearly today. It's easy to get caught up in the wedding hype, but as I suspected all along, at the end of the day it's about two people sharing their special celebration with their closest family and friends. I hope we can continue to learn from each other as the years pass.

Thank you Tamra

Your friendship over so many years has truly been an amazing gift. We are constantly learning from each other and I look forward many more years of that! You have been such an amazing woman to have by my side - the thought you put into my Bridal Shower and Hens Party was incredible! During our whole engagement and on our wedding day you were completely selfless and devoted to helping me celebrate the beginning of this exciting new chapter. I'm looking forward to sharing your special day sometime in the future and I wish for you all the happiness that I have enjoyed over this journey.

Thank you Michelle

From the beginnings - when we stepped into Brides of Melbourne and found THE ONE, to our wedding day, 585 days later when you kept me steady as we walked up the aisle together. Your love, help and support has been wonderful. I was so excited you could be a part of the preparations in such a big way - and you took on every crazy project I sent your way with such grace! Although you would have had so much fun at my Bridal Shower and Hens Night, I couldn't have asked anything more of you. No matter how far apart we live, you can always count on me.

Thank you Kate

My new sister! Kate you've been a calm voice of reason and my unruffled confidant. I still remember your face when you saw me in my gown for the first time. I'm so grateful for our quick lunches, after work catch-ups, for the dancing lessons, our hens outfit shopping trip, your help with the placecards, your moral support at Brides of Melbourne, the photos and for never being too busy. But above all that I'm grateful to gain such a cool little sister, our friendship began many years ago but we become closer every day. I just know our adventures will continue and our bond will deepen, our door is always open for you.

Tuesday

Ooooh I was so excited and nervous this morning! The alarm went off at ten past six and I was too chicken to ring James so texted him and Kate. It was much easier to get up after peeking out the window - it was light outside already! We dressed in a rush and Trav looked so handsome in just his shirt and pants - with his hair mussed up and some light stubble on his face.
I tiptoed downstairs and quietly opened the door - and who happened to be was standing right outside the door perusing the brochures but Trav's dad! We both looked at each other, I gasped and quickly shut the door! What did I think - maybe he didn't see me??
Sheepishly I opened the door and there he was - grinning from ear to ear and looking us up and down with amusement as we stepped outside. 'Shhhhhh' I smiled.

As we stood at the front of the Villas, a familiar car was parked at the entrance to the beach. Shaun! What's going on? Does nobody sleep in around here?? We wondered whether to wander down or wait for James. As we stood there we came up with a few scenarios - if we bumped into him we could either approach him in astonishment and say 'Shaun! hi! What day is it???' or we could bluff with 'OK, ready? Let's do this!' As it turned out we needed neither - James drove up and Kate stumbled out to join us moments later (looking glamorous at even that hour!)

We drove a bit further down four mile beach and got out of the car - with amused looks from the PT class that was passing by.

As we stepped onto the beach I didn't hesitate once and walked right down to the waves with my skirt over one arm. The water was pleasant and refreshing. We wandered up and down the beach and Kate asked if I was happy to let my skirt down. Ooops! Was I still carrying it? I let it down and the breeze was just strong enough to flow through it!

We jumped onto a beached catamaran and climbed up the lifesaver's lookout. Kate and James were a great team. We wrote some messages on the sand and James said he'd caught sight of what must be Shaun's flash in the trail up to the lookout. The sun slowly cracked through the clouds.

Soon we headed down to Anzac park - this was the bit I'd really been looking forward to! We'd run out of time and daylight to come down here on our wedding day.
It's funny how you can be standing there with the camera going and you think to yourself - I wonder how this will look? Well they were some of my favourites. James must have been having so much fun and he must have been almost laying on the ground to get some of the angles. Kate would add the parasol, move the parasol, fan out my skirt, take the parasol away. In others the palm trees create a beautiful frame around us. In some shots we look like we're standing in a field or on a hill. There's nothing else - no palm trees, no water. The sky is huge.
We played around on the swings and the picnic table before heading up to the lookout.

When we returned to our Villas, it was nearly 8:30 and we snuck back into our room without being noticed.

After packing we said our thank you's to Toni & Bruno and relaxed in Egan & Marian's Villa with avocado and bacon sandwiches for lunch. Soon everyone arrived back from their trip to Mossman Gorge and we enjoyed the last few hours together with some quiet drinks and looking through the photos. 
Trav and I presented our parents with the gifts we'd carefully picked for them - including that bottle of wine I'd nursed from Adelaide to home, then home to Port Douglas. 

Soon it was time to go, the shuttle pulled up as we said our last goodbyes. As we climbed aboard and took our seats, Trav took my hand and we smiled at each other, ready for a whole new adventure...

Monday

Wow. We really did nothing today. Almost all the guests were gone and We finally got down to the shops to pick out a couple of gifts. It was a grey afternoon and we spent a lot of it watching TV. Really - I'm only feeling a little bit guilty because I think it was time for us to switch off for a while. James and Kate came over in the afternoon and we plotted the following day's secret photo shoot.

Of course we managed to drag ourselves to Zinc for an amazing dinner with family and friends!

Sunday

We knew the weather would be turning a bit today but hoped it wouldn't completely ruin our day on the reef. Bruno thought it would be 'the best of a bad bunch'. I had to catch a lift with Jason again this morning - as polite little me ensured everyone else (even my HUSBAND) was on the shuttle before me. So I missed out! No matter - I rode in comfort and as I stepped out at Marina Mirage I said to Jason 'well Jason I know i can count on you for last minute lifts!' 'Christie, you can count on me for anything' and with that our adventure at sea began. We sat on the top deck heading out, and soon the waves were crashing over each side of the boat. Michelle came out 'because the lady said I was looking a bit green' and I spent the rest of the hour huddling her to try to stop her shivers and make her more comfortable. It wasn't too great on the reef - the grey skies meant everything underneath the surface of the water was muted - not the beautiful strong colours in all the photos. The current was so strong that after paddling away from the boat - you zoomed right back in just a few seconds. My snorkel would fill with water as I was bobbing around but the water was warm. When you got out you could warm yourself up by sticking a hot water hose down your wetsuit - that was the best bit of the whole trip! Although it wasn't the perfect day - there were lots more stories to tell than if it had been - Dean trying to walk forwards in his flippers was a good one (all that moon-walking forgotten so quickly!).

As we lined up to step out of the boat the crew were pairing our shoes up outside. 'Watch them try to find mine' said Ryan - it was hilarious - they'd check the bins, check the deck, check again - look at each other in worry, until Ryan came out with his crutches and a big grin on his face!

On the way home we picked up the last of the stubby holders and things and were lucky enough to be spotted by Anthony on the shuttle so we caught a ride home.

We had dinner at Mum's place as Michelle and Ryan were leaving early the next morning, it was great spending time with Aunty Irene and Aunty Yarg and we enjoyed a mountain of delicious fresh prawns. After catching up with friends at Rattle 'n' Hum I snuck out and put a goodbye note on Michelle's car as a suprise in the morning.

Saturday

I laid in bed for a while when I awoke on Saturday. I glanced over at Travis - he looks so sweet, dozing with his new ring on. Soon we we greeting some sleep looking suspects in our transformed outdoor dining room, and Tamra set to work on her pumpkin scones. Bless her!

I positively beamed whenever anyone said 'so how is Mrs McIntosh this morning?'!We heard all sorts of tales from the day before - the frame had even made it home in one piece after a dance at the Iron Bar! Eventually everyone dispersed - most people heading to the beach so Deborah came down to collect our leftovers from the chapel and Lure. A wedding was just finishing as we ducked in the back door at St Mary's - Shobha was all smiles as usual and we chatted about how the rest of the day went. The sand looked so lovely as it was in the vase that I wondered if there was some way we could keep it in there. At Lure we picked up a lot of cake and Joan's sunnies along with a few other things.
Trav and I were finally sitting on the beach just after 3pm - and the shadows were already stretching across to the water's edge.

But as it always does, the Port Douglas clock took it's sweet time and we found ourselves ready to head out to dinner about an hour before our booking at Nautilus. We took our time getting ready, and then took a very slow walk down Macrossan Street, hoping to bump into a few friendly faces on the way. And we did - Louise and Kylie were at Mango Jam - they did NOT want to have a sandwich at home like Leon on their last day on holidays!

We were still half an hour early as we climbed the path to Nautilus. I recalled the last time we'd wandered up this shady path on our 5th anniversary. As we were shown to the bar, we passed Louise, Daniel, Kim and Eileen - I remember the big beaming smile on Louise's face.

Our dining spot was just at the top of the path and we indulged in 3 courses! Everything was again, simply decadent!

Happy 18th! (The Groom's View)

In the morning the boys came around to Mum and Dads and we when to a quiet little cafe and sat out the back. All 3 of us were quite and a little tired. I dont think we expected it to be such a late night. But it was a good way to get rid of a little hangover.

We went back to Mum and Dads to get ready for the photographer, a quick suit change and we were ready to go. The other guys had never worn french cuffs before and were in the bedroom looking at each other for ages trying to work out what to do, it was so funny. We had a couple of pics at the villas then headed to the beach.

After we were done we changed back into boardies and started with a few beers. Dad whipped up some lunch and then we realised we should start getting ready to go again. But as we tried to leave at 1.40, Christie and the girls left to get some photos taken so Dad wouldn't let us out. At 2.15 I said to Dad "I don't care if I see here or she sees me, either way I'm leaving now"

Happy 18th!

The Morning
I woke up at least 4 times last night. I was tossing and turning and had some nonsense dreams. At one point I made a concious effort to try to think of Rossi, and how he was snoring so peacefully on Saturday night. I tried to imagine patting him and finally fell asleep again. At about 5:30 am I heard the shower turn on above the sound of the ceiling fan in my room. 'Strange' I thought, it's a bit early. I lay there for another few minutes before getting up to find no one in the bathroom, it WAS rain! big old fat rain was hitting the leaves outside and it sounded so heavy! Instead of starting to stress about the day ahead and whether or not we'd have to move the dancefloor, I decided it was a great opportunity to drift off to sleep again, I just love falling to sleep when its raining at home on our tin roof and this would be just as good. It worked. I woke up before 8 and soon got up, knowing I wouldn't fall asleep again. Soon Kate joined me on the couch and Stacey wasn't far behind. We watched tv - all that was on was Miss Australia's Q&A blooper and the David Jones CEO in hot water. Over and over again. Kate offered to make me another delicious omelette for breakfast and although I didn't know if I could stomach it I found myself wolfing it down.

Soon they headed off and it was about 9.15 when Louise said she was on her way. I jumped in the shower and she was on the couch when I emerged from the bathroom in my beautiful silk robe and a cloud of Fracas. I was still feeling very uncomfortable during the morning. Louise gave me a beautiful crystal encrusted heart to carry with me down the aisle and a card filled with lovely words and the strains of 'So happy together... I can't see me loving nobody but you - for all my life....'

Tamra arrived soon after, sporting her very tame pale pink fingernails and then Mum and Deborah dropped in. Deborah was keen to know the name of my florist - I told her and asked if there were any problems? Nope, she shrugged and disappeared downstairs again. I finally pressed play on my carefully selected 'Christie's Wedding Morning' playlist and the first song was 'Baby got back!'

Kristy from Blush arrived before 10 and got started on Deborah, Michelle and Mum, soon her friend Stacey joined us and Louise and Tamra were getting prettified. There was a male voice at the door and when Shaun walked up the stairs with his camera I got the biggest shock 'What's the time?? I panicked... 'Relax it's only 10:30, I'm just checking out the place' he replied. Phew!
Shaun seemed quite impressed with our postcards - I'd brought a set as well as the journal I was keeping and a few other things to have photographed.

Next it was my turn in the hot seat and Kristy decided to forgo the extensions, confident that she could get my hair 'as big as I want it.' Deborah reappeared, this time with Chris, Lacey and a huge pink bouquet! Really, this thing was longer than my arm and was full of oriental lilies, easter lilies, pink gerberas, singapore orchids and some beautiful pink waxy torch like flowers that were locally grown - I have yet to find out what they're called!

Shaun saw this as a perfect photo moment and kept snapping away as Kristy worked on my makeup. Fake eyelashes and everything!

We went outside and checked the colouring in the sun next to the pool - I hadn't been outside until now and it was turning into the most beautiful blue sky day. Our flowers arrived shortly, Angie warned me that we hadn't gotten exactly what we wanted, there wasn't enough pale pink orchids to make our bouquets so we had a combination of pink and white and she discounted the flowers. I didn't mind a bit, everything looked beautiful and I couldn't want to see everyone wearing their bloom.

The girls dressed and we all headed over to Mum's villa for photos - it was a lot brighter on the mezzanine and my dress was hanging from the skylight. Remembering Trav's gift, I asked Louise and Tamra to take it over to him while Mum helped me into my gown, then we had pics of the girls buttoning me up, and then I put on my jewellery and was ready for my bridal closeups. The strange thing was that we could check out the photos as we went, Shaun would show me some in the viewfinder straight after taking them, it was quite surreal.

With the boys ordered to stay in their room with the curtains closed, we made our way across the road for some photos in a nearby garden. A few passersby gave me an approving look, and a little girl with her mother seemed quite in awe!

When we were sure the coast was clear, we ran back to Coral Sea Villas and I waited at the driveway with Aunty Lee frantically making arm gestures to everyone. Back in Mum's villa, I noticed a missed call on my phone - I read out the 07 number - 'it's Dad' Michelle said flatly. My eyes darted around the room, could I call him? Would I get upset? Louise offered 'call him later, call him later' giving me an encouraging nod. I put the phone down. I picked it up, Michelle said, 'you're better off calling him now'. Deep down I agreed, I knew this was the last chance I would speak to him before our wedding. I walked onto the balcony, took a deep breath, and called him back. 'Hi Dad' 'Hi Sweetie, how are you, where are you now' 'We're about to leave for the ceremony' I kept my voice even 'That's great, I just called to wish you all the best and I love you both very much' 'Thank you Dad, thank you' was all I could say, and all I had to say.

I walked back into the room, where everyone stood quietly, not sure whether to look or not. I gave Tamra a smile and she smiled back and held my hand.

Downstairs Bruno and Toni caught me before we jumped into Jason's car. They were both so excited and hoped to get down to the chapel to see some of the ceremony. Soon the flowers, parasols and us were bundled carefully into Jason's car and we drove down Macrossan street. Getting into the car was one of those heartbeat skipping moments, I'd realised then just how much I'd been relaxing as the day progressed, I think the distraction of hair, makeup, flowers and photos helped, it was a nice calm feeling though. Jason dropped us off outside the Central Hotel and with my veil and dress over my arm, and parasols in hand, we all wandered past the Iron Bar and Courthouse Hotel - I could see Shaun and Jen waiting on the other side of the road. I don't know if anyone called out to us or even whistled, I guess I was in the zone.

We crossed the road and made our way through the park towards the chapel. 'What if Trav sees you through the window?' I heard, 'Won't happen' I laughed as I saw James and Stacey blocking his view with their cameras. Jen said she'd heard I was notorious for being late so it was nice to see I was planning an on-time entrance.

At the front of the Chapel, Deborah and Shobha were waiting for us, Deborah's brother Chris appeared and started snapping away like a proper papparazo. There was a strange blonde woman with long hair sitting on the bench watching us, and she started taking pictures too, weird. 'You look beautiful' Shobha whispered. 'Feeling good?' Deborah asked, 'Yes' I managed, mouth dry but smiling. 'Apparently everyone's expecting me to be late?' 'Nah, Trav said it'd be alright because you're already dressed' Deborah quipped. 'Ready to go in?' 'Yes' 'Shall I start the music?' Shobha asked, 'Yes OK'.

The Ceremony

The music began, we all looked at each other, Louise took her cue and stepped up into the chapel, this was it! It felt like forever until the verse finished and Tamra finally followed. Standing halfway up the steps, I could see lots of familiar faces smiling at me from the back rows, lots of cameras started clicking. That also made me feel at ease, I think not seeing anyone until I saw them all at once would have been much more daunting!

With Michelle timing the music, we made our way up the steps and stood at the entrance, we began to walk down the aisle together slowly. I looked around at everyone, there were so many familiar faces smiling at me, at the end stood Louise, Tamra, Deborah, Anthony and Daniel. And Travis. Once I set my sights on him I didn't look anywhere else. He looked calm, assured and we smiled at each other all the way.

Michelle and I stepped up to the altar and she kissed Travis and I before sitting down. Travis took my hands in his, I remember they felt so strong and assured. The ceremony began, when Deborah asked our parents if they accepted us there was a resounding 'Yes, definitely' from Marian and Egan. Kate's reading was beautiful, so loud and clear, we were both watching her and she told us later that if she'd looked at us she was sure she would have burst into tears. Our mothers then came forward for the sand ceremony.

Trav said his vows first, voice unwavering and confident. I remember wondering why we'd picked such long ones. Then it was my turn, I'd always wanted to speak in a strong, clear voice, having been to weddings where I couldn't hear the vows at all. I began, my strong voice giving me more courage. At one line I almost cracked, I hesitated, took a deep breath and composed myself, blinking back the start of a tear and finished my vows.

James came forward with the rings and before I knew it, Deborah announced us husband and wife, and Travis took me in both his arms and kissed me! We then began the signing of the register. As Anthony was signing I noticed a big green ant crawling along the collar of his shirt. I looked at Trav, he was looking at it too, I didn't know whether to try to flick it away or not, Trav leaned past me and brushed it away. After Anthony and Louise had signed, Deborah invited us back to the front, I looked at her quizically, Daniel and Tamra hadn't signed our certificate yet. Deborah presented us as Mr and Mrs Travis and Christie McIntosh to all our guests and we got a huge round of applause as 'You're my best friend' began. Before she let us walk out of the chapel, Deborah hung two homemade silver bells over my arm (sequinned with our initials which I didn't notice until later). We stepped down and gave all our family hugs and kisses (Uncle Les with a tear in his eye) and Marian and Kate slipped their horseshoes over my arm.

Later on, Rebecca and Andrew said they could see the sheer relief on our faces as we turned to face our guests before walking down the aisle together. She's sure only a married couple can recognise this moment and she thinks a couple behind them had also noticed it.

As we walked out of the chapel as newlyweds Shaun and Jen were at the bottom of the steps. 'Celebrate!' he yelled - we were grinning from ear to ear as we stepped down into the park and soon were surrounded by friends and family, congratulating us and emptying their petal cones over our heads. Tracy and Megan had a different approach, grabbing Trav's shirt and tipping petals down his front!

Shaun gathered everyone for a group shot, making sure they all got a handful each of the leftover rose petals. Standing on his step ladder, he tried directing everyone when Peter yelled 'its like herding sheep!' 'Cats.' Shaun corrected, 'Like herding cats!' He then paused, blaming his second dizzy spell of the day (the first was when reaching for my dress hanging from the skylight earlier!). Jen helped him out by shaking the ladder.

We began our family shots, when we were standing with Trav's family Shaun said 'it's Michelle isn't it?' 'Michelle you're in my shot!' he called past us, 'Michelle you're still in my shot!'

When posing my family Uncle Les grumbled under his breath as he was directed this way and that, and Michelle would have scored zero points when she got Ryan in the photo as well!

The Photos

Trav and I then took a walk behind the chapel, with Shaun shooting from inside that huge window behind the altar. 'Just take a little stroll along the water - Christie lead him along a bit'. Then left us - we strolled slowly, then we strolled back - then Trav had an idea, turned around and got down on one knee - I knew I picked a good husband!

Soon we met our bridal party at Shaun's car and upon discovering that Trav had pushed the guys past the bottle shop so they wouldn't be late for the ceremony, (good husband!) we made a quick detour and filled the eski before heading out of town. I was riding shotgun and When the boys returned to the car, Trav said 'Shaun do you mind if we have a drink in the car?' 'Nah that's fine mate' - next thing I heard were Kshh-Kshh-Kshh as three bottles were opened in a row! Jen followed us out as Tamra cheered from the very back row 'Hey beautiful bride!'

First stop was Diggers Bridge, we made our way down a dirt road as Shaun asked me 'How do you feel about dust?' Hmmm. 'Not sure?'As we passed a pile of old tyres on the side of the road, he said 'I might get the guys to roll those tyres down the road later...'

We pulled up before the bridge, it was an overgrown area and as the sun was slowly sinking, everything was beginning to get a warm glow around it, it reminded me a lot of the tracks behind our old house in Macedon. With Shaun calling out instructions, we all walked up the hill toward the car, we all got to chat and giggle everytime we did this!

Soon Trav and I were standing on the 90 year old bridge. It was made of old wide sleepers that had major gaps between them and rumbled when a car went past. It was a bit tricky wandering around, trying not to fall through a hole and avoiding the odd cars. We did get lots of waves and 'congratulations!' - everybody loves a wedding! Shaun and Jen were perched on the river bank downstream. I remember thinking 'I hope we're making this look good!'.

When we returned to the car we found out Jen had hit her head when climbing back up the hill - it didn't stop her from sticking to Shaun through every intersection though!


As we drove back through the forest all the undergrowth was just covered with dust, Shaun said there was a quarry nearby and there was always this beautiful washed-out look on everything.
'That's the dust I'm talking about' as I looked back the car had left a cloud all over the road - something really special when the light is filtering through 'it is a lot of dust, I'm sure one of the boys would have revved it up for us'. 


We chatted about doing things backwards - house kids/dog then marriage. Soon we arrived at a cane field with a big tractor at the start. 'Up you get' Shaun said, looking at Trav. Trav laughed. 'Well...' Shaun said. Trav grinned awkwardly and went to put his beer down 'Just kidding!' HA HA HA!


We made our way through a narrow track and I couldn't help wondering how this would all look when it came together in the video and photos. On the way to our next location we found out what the saying was that the boys came up with that was guaranteed to always make them laugh all day. 'So is it true?' Shaun asked 'They're just jealous!' I responded. 'So it's true!!!'


Next stop was Four Mile Beach - shoes were off and out came those parasols and I was finally game enough to open a piccolo - my first drink of the day! This is where we made our thank you cards, Shaun's idea took our original inspiration a step further and I can't wait to see how they turn out!


We made our way back to Port Douglas town and parked at the Sugar Wharf. As we got out of the car, Shaun said, 'let's see how many...' tourists?' I volunteered 'weddings' he replied. Uh oh. It's a pretty popular spot. We rounded the corner to find.... just a few kids and fishermen! Shaun seemed amazed once again. Where were all the other weddings today?? So many passersby called out and wished us congratulations, even from the boats!

I grabbed Louise and Tamra for some fun shots and went to kick a piece of trash out of the way. It flipped over and it was a Mrs Mac's pie wrapper! yeah I don't usually get so excited about trash!


Soon it was my turn for some bridal portraits - I got many looks of approval from the nearby fishermen - and even a 'You look stunning'!


The sun was disappearing as we drove into the carpark of Marina Mirage. Time for a quick freshen up (I had it easy in the toilets compared to Tamra & Louise!) and one last dance practice...


The Reception

This was it! James came out and collected our extra bags and the eski - Shaun was already at Lure and we were about to arrive. We crossed through the mall to the boardwalk, and soon we could see everyone from a distance, it was dark outside now, but the boardwalk was all lit up with pink and red lights on the palms, and torches and our path of candles. Our guests packed the boardwalk and though I could hear a few familiar voices above the rest, I couldn't make out anyone from here. 


There was a country singer at another restaurant who made it hard to hear Nick's announcement - but soon Tamra and Anthony made their way to the dancefloor, arm in arm to lots of applause. Louise and Daniel soon followed, the applause grew - then we were announced to a din of cheering, whistles and clapping!


We got ready to begin our dance - and the music had started before we even knew it! We missed our first dip and made a couple of little mistakes, but we did finish on time! It was an amazing feeling - I wasn't nervous at all and it felt like we really were swooping and twinkling across the dancefloor, just like I'd wanted to. I hope we made Kate proud!

Our bridal party joined us to dance to Jack Johnson next, and then Trav's folks and Mum and Michelle. And then EVERYONE was up dancing! I know the first 2 songs were You make me feel like dancing and Some kind of wonderful by Joss Stone (because they were my requests!) but after that it was just party song after party song. Marian danced with Matt (Kat said their eyes met from across the floor) and David - removing his glasses which he wasn't too pleased about (I returned them to him!).

We soon made our way to the tables and as we were seated first, I got to sit and observe everybody in this room we'd created - full of our friends and family who were all having such a great time in Port Douglas with us! Except two. I really missed Louise and Daniel a lot that night. Kylie greeted us and filled our beautiful crystal champagne flutes and she said she woke up to the rain too this morning - worrying about me!

Nick read out the telegrams we'd received - from Liz, Maureen, Mum, Marian & Egan, Deborah, Angela and a few others. They got a laugh!

Dinner was soon served - and we handed each platter around for everyone to try. All the food was cooked to absolute perfection. The Fillet of Beef stuffed with semi-dried tomato, pine nuts,oregano & Persian Fetta was superb - so tender and moist! The Chicken Breast Supreme
served on a sushi rice cake with steamed bok choy & massaman curry sauce was so succulent and the Barramundi on a crab mousseline crêpe with orange beurre blanc was a real treat!

I sat back and observed again. Tamra and Anthony were both tucking into their meals happily, across the room I could hear so many familiar voices chatting and laughing in between mouthfuls. Not long after the meal Egan was at our table, raving about the food and how well the ligher styled Shiraz Viognier complimented the beef (I knew I was on a winner there!). In fact - so many guests just loved the food and the way it was served!

Soon it was time for speeches, my 'military operation' as Nick referred to it, was running right on schedule. Mum's speech was touching, and I loved that she led the Polish guests with 'Sto Lat'. Egan's words were lovely too and he got lots of laughs! I didn't know what Trav had in store but his speech was so simple and thoughtful, he mentioned everyone who played an important part of our day and thanked them. And that's exactly what I would have done too. Our appreciation of every single person there was amplified by the distance they had all travelled. When I think that all these people had invested their time, money and annual leave just to be with us today I am overwhelmed by how much we mean to them. We certainly have a solid circle of friends and family around us. Daniel and Anthony took it pretty easy - it was all about Trav thank goodness!

As we got up to cut our cake, Susan was coaching us 'Christie put your hand on his - we want to see both rings in the photo!'. After we'd cut the cake Jen asked if we'd like to cut a slice and feed each other a piece. We looked at each other 'Nahhhhh' we said in unison.

Soon we were back on the dancefloor for our 'Parents' dance. Uncle Les and I, Marian and Trav and Mum and Egan danced to As the Days go By (well OK the 2 of us shuffled) and then the Anniversary Dance began, I had to help Nick explain the dance but when he got the hang of it it was really lovely. I spotted Daniel at the table - just as Louise disappeared and urged him to go get her and join this dance. Nothing happened. It was a pretty crowded dancefloor and we hung in there for our 11 years. At the end only Joan & Wayne and Susan and Gary were left, and Susan was trying to count how many years they'd been together. Finally she and Gary admitted defeat and then Joan and Wayne followed - I raced over to Joan to congratulate her and present her with my bouquet.

The dancefloor opened up again and I soon spotted one of the waitresses showing Anthony how to do the Macarena. There were so many people up that we spread out onto the boardwalk! Throughout the night I remember hearing a few requests and trying to remember who's they were - I grabbed Louise and Hilda for Dancing Queen, Nick made his own request and summoned us up for Dirty Dancing's the Time of My Life - Jason held Kate above his shoulders! Then he had to do it again for the cameras! Anthony wouldn't be beaten by his younger brother so he picked Tamra up and whirled her around a few times. Then there was the unexpected request. I couldn't believe it when I heard the first few bars of 'Pony'. I protested at first, but eventually sucked it up and Trav and I slid around the dancefloor with our best pony interpretation! 


We nutbushed. We bus-stopped. We conga'd. And we nutbushed again! There were lots of bare feet on the dancefloor (oooh I'm getting goosebumps remembering it all again!) I'd heard a lot of 'beautifuls' and 'stunnings' throughout the day but I received my one and only 'ethereal' from Andrea. That girl has a way with words!


I ducked around the tables quickly - though there weren't many people left seated and I noticed that there was already a queue forming for the chocolate fountain. Dean was just finishing off a mighty fine moon walk when I wandered up to the smokers' end for a chat. Lucky I got dessert next - there wasn't much left! The best idea was the ice cream balls! Our cake was also absolutely delicious and the ice cream balls were such a fantastic idea to accompany the chocolate fountain. I sat down next to Allison and noticed a dinner plate filled with chocolate in front of David!


As I headed back towards the dancefloor I noticed James near the frame photo spot. I raced over and jumped in some pictures with Kate and Michelle. James said 'Hey Christie -are you busy right now?' Nope. He headed over to the DJ and next thing I heard was 'Whoever would like a picture with the bride please head over to the boardwalk...'. I had a queue! Allison & Ben, Lara & Tennille, Mum and all my Aunties, Marian & Egan, Stacey, Maree, Anthony, Louise and Lucas all came over. Oh and Trav too.


We then took the frame over to the other side and Trav and I got some shots with Tamra and Anthony - they are such a beautiful reminder of how much fun we were having! I can even remember us all standing behind the frame (goosebumps again).


Soon, with Kate in charge, no one was safe! The frame went from table to table, catching all our friends and family and it even had time for a boogie on the dancefloor. I love the shots where you can see Kate concentrating and holding it as far as she can - while the people in the shot are doing something random. It's an interesting contrast. Kate really framed these shots beautifully! It wasn't long before I recognised another request - and I think we all know who ordered AC/DC's You Shook me All Night Long! Yep Mich was up there wiggling her tush all over the place. I tried dancing with her but it was hopeless. Dean even jumped back up to dance with me - he knew the words to this one! Then Trav and I were back together as my sister shimmied up and down our legs - and then sauntered over to Egan with her rock lock in the air. (I am crying with laughter as I'm writing this)


I am so glad for all the observing I did throughout the night, it neither felt too long or too short - and I think that's because I was paying such close attention to everyone and actually living in the moment. So although I was sad when a farewell circle was formed on the dancefloor, I didn't wish it to go longer, and I knew that I'd made the most of every single moment. One by one we said goodbye to everyone - but it wasn't too sad - I was saying 'see you tomorrow at breakfast!!' I was sad when Royce and Kylie told me they were leaving first thing in the morning - I hadn't spent any proper time getting to know them all night and if I'd known then I would have made more time with them. But still no regrets. 
Trav and I met exactly halfway through - he'd been keeping an eye on me so we both finished together. At the very end of the circle, Louise and Daniel stood. We hugged and I gave them an encouraging smile. What more could I do? I said my last goodbye to Lara Thomas and tracked mum down for the key to our room. As Trav and I gave a final wave and wandered away from our party the funniest thing happened. A human arch grew in front of us - led by Kate and Tracy and we ducked down and squeezed through with me squealing in delight. When we were just about out of the arch, more people would appear and so it continued all the way down the boardwalk.

Egan appeared at the end of our arch and before I could speak he held his hand up and his words still stay in my mind 'You two made tonight, you really did.'

1 sleep...

Let the pampering begin! Trav snoozed in bed while I got up bright and early to greet  Jodie, Nick's gorgeous wife who would our manicures and pedicures. Soon after 9 we were set up next to the pool and my transformation began. Kate kept me company and I started to feel nervy all over again. I appreciated that feeling, it wasn't apprehension, I wasn't nauseous, I certainly wasn't worried about my decision and I wasn't worried about anything going wrong and I knew that everyone in attendance tomorrow was there in love and support, it was just butterflies. But not feeling those butterflies would have been a shame. I would have missed out on all that anticipation. So I sighed. Kate gave me a look.

I sighed again, Kate laughed. Jodie said 'She'll be doing that all day, now' Kate threatened to start counting!

Soon Michelle, Andrea and Tamra appeared and we all relaxed and chatted by the pool. As soon as I was done, I rallied a few girls to help with the ribbons and lanterns for the chapel while I enjoyed Kate's tasty tomato and bacon omelette.

Later on I finally began to experience one of the things I'd been so desperately looking forward to - as I wandered down Macrossan street I bumped into so many friends and family - there's Jason - there's Louise and Eileen at Mango Jam!? I picked up Michelle's birthday cupcake from Sugarloaf and on the way home caught up to Daniel and Kim - I explained that it was a suprise for my sister and of course, who do we see coming towards us next? Michelle and Ryan!

'What've you got there?' 'What is it?' 'Show me' she reminded me of a seagull as I dodged around the boys to keep the box hidden!  

Trav and I made the most of a spare half an hour and snuck off to practice our dance a few times - whoever was living in the hotel opposite our park would have been well entertained!

Soon it was rehearsal time, we met our family and bridal party at St Mary's Chapel and hung back a bit as there was another wedding having their photos out the front after their ceremony. Funnily, I hadn't ever seen another wedding there in all the time I've visited. We met Shobha and all walked into the chapel. We started by practicing our entrance to the music (Louise had to get comfortable with being the first in line), I couldn't even pick the timing which I'd known so well until this day. Michelle told everyone to walk left-together-right-together and when we finally reached the alter Deborah read through a few lines of the introduction and we ran through the sand ceremony. We were all a bit fumbly so Michelle,  lounged across the front pew and obviously unimpressed, drawled 'd'ya wanna take that from the top?'. Aaah did I tell you she's a wedding coordinator too?

When the time came to be given away, Marian and Egan stood up and said 'Ummmm, hmmmm, I don't know...' and everyone was in fits of laughter, - apparently my expression was priceless!

James used Egan's hat as a ring cushion and soon we were making our way back down the aisle together. The girls and I practiced our entrance one more time - Michelle seemed much more satisified with this effort and I remember it was timed so beautifully that Trav took my hands in his on the final note of the verse. It was just lovely.

We made our way to Lure to meet Kylie, Wayne and Nick - and soon I saw a familiar face sitting waterside. I came up behind her with a big HELLO and Aunty Irene turned around in suprise - Aunty Yarg, Uncle George and Aunty Halina were also there. It was a great reunion!

Trav and I returned to our room before dinner to write our thank you cards, and soon Uncle Les dropped in to say hello. I gave him his special handkerchief and he almost cried right there. He agreed to join us for dinner and soon we met everyone else on the balcony of the Courthouse Hotel. It was very hard getting everyone to be seated at once and soon I noticed that Tamra and Kate had disappeared. I found them downstairs in the queue to order their meals. I tried asking them to come upstairs because if we all ordered at different times we'd get our meals at different times, they didn't seem to catch on too quickly. 'OK look, Trav and I would like to buy everyone's meals tonight so can you please come back upstairs so we can all order together??' Yep, they got it that time.

After our orders were taken, while everyone was still seated, I shakily stood up and said
'Travis and I have invited you to join us tonight so we can thank you for all your love and support so far. It really means a lot to us' (yeah that's about as far as I got before my voice cracked and a single tear welled up in my eye). One by one, I picked a gift our of the bag and asked Trav for the card, before presenting each and every person on that table with their special thank you.
Michelle said, 'It's not another postcard is it?' and made me laugh, giving me instant relief from my emotional state. Stacey was absolutley wrapt with her tinkerbell bracelet and put it on straight away, Deborah loved her card holder, pointing out to me her namesake, the bee on the front.
Kate and Michelle loved their pearl pendants but both were concerned with wearing them at the wedding, I'd seen the jewellery they'd both selected for their outfits already and assured them that they didn't have to - they might just like to wear it to the ceremony and then change for the reception. James was amazed that we'd known the exact specs for his camera and was looking forward to learning how to use the new lens. When I gave Anthony and Daniel their gifts I told them, 'Now one is to wear tomorrow, and one is for later - try to work out which is which'. Anthony soon came up to me presenting the pink string his gift was wrapped in and said, 'is this for tomorrow?' with his big grin.

Tamra and Louise were thrilled with their bags, I confessed that Mum had helped me a lot with making them and they were very excited to see their names on the inside.
Our parents received their cards and handkerchiefs, and we explained to both that we couldn't think up anything that would be enough to thank them, so we'd present them with an album each later on. Everyone's meals were delicious and we were a bit late heading downstairs to meet all the other guests. We took over 2 long tables on Wharf street and soon about 50 guests had joined us and we all chatted and laughed for a while. From across the other table Susan looked at me and said 'I know something you don't - there's a surprise at the ceremony tomorrow'. From this point a tiny thought grew at the back of my head, 'if he comes to the ceremony, would he really tell anyone? Would anyone really tease me with this? Would he really come?'. I never did find out what the ceremony surprise was.
By 9:30 I wanted to get out of there and try to get a long night's sleep. I walked home with mum after giving Trav a good-bye kiss. I hoped he wouldn't stay out too late and regret it tomorrow, but I didn't say a word.

I had to laugh when Kate told me that Michelle had been in a fluster before the rehearsal, worrying that she might be late. Well Mich - why don't you just take a look at that running sheet you didn't want to read!


The Groom's View:

After saying goodnight to Christie we stayed at the courthouse for a little longer and a couple more drinks. We then ended up at The Iron Bar. Before /i knew it I was receiving all different types of drinks from everyone. Shots and cocktails and beers and even a water. We stayed out a little later than i'd planned, but it was still a fun night. Anthony told me that he told all the staff to refuse me service and he was the only one allowed to get me drinks.

2 sleeps...thank you Mike!

I woke up on Wednesday feeling no better, even after a solid night's sleep and yesterday's dip in the pool. Toni suggested a couple of masseurs who might be able to straighten me up a bit and I headed down Macrossan street to find either of them.

Michael Joseph at Deep Massage & Body Work was just opening the door when I arrived. He stood at about 6'6" and his friendly grin quickly turned upside down when he saw me try to sit down to arrange an appointment.

'So do you know what you want?'

'Well I'm getting married in 2 days and I can't stand up or sit down or even walk without feeling like a 90 year old' I blurted. He asked a couple more questions before declaring it was Quadratus Lomborum, and the good news is that it's easily treatable. Phew!
I headed across the road to pick up a couple of coffees from rehab. This place has the best reputation in town and I couldn't resist a pair of 'Outpatient' stubby holders. Like most places in QLD- you wouldn't want to be in a rush but the coffees were terrific and definitely worth the wait.

When I came back an hour later for the appointment Mike showed me the problem on the muscular chart and I learned about why it was starting to affect my legs and upper back. Generally if your lower back is sore, it means your thigh muscles are already tight as they've been carrying the weight. And as you try to brace yourself and distribute the weight away from your lower back, that's when your upper back starts to carry the extra, so it gets sore too. We started with 2 amazing but excruciating stretches that I was only allowed to use sparingly, before Mike got to work on a very strong 1 hour massage. It hurt. He knew. I winced and tried to bear it in the hope that I would improve faster. I have never felt that kind of power in knuckles or elbows ever before! I'd just try to brace myself as he repeated the movements. As an extra special treat, he put some hot stones under my back ('just because you're getting married').

When I stood up, I wasn't cured but I felt a lot better. I could even reach down and put my shoes on!

When I got back to our Villa Trav was content munching on his sandwich and as Michelle and Ryan had gone to Cairns for the night I persuaded Mum to join me for a bucket of prawns and bubbly on the decks of the Tin Shed. http://www.thetinshed-portdouglas.com.au/

Not to be confused with the Iron Bar, the Tin Shed is home to the Port Douglas Combined Club, and with a deck over the water, it's a lovely spot for a meal. Mum and I enjoyed our indulgent lunch - we'd been talking about fresh prawns for so long that it was about time we ate them! They were small but so sweet and juicy!

After the obligatory photos, we started making our way back home and I heard from Louise and Deborah that they had finally arrived. The first thing I did was knock on Deborah's door until Coral answered - explaining that Deborah was upstairs in bed, ill with a serious chest infection! Ooops. I retreated quietly and Mum, Trav and I prepared welcome drinks for the McIntosh's who would arrive soon. We greeted them with beer and bubbly (not that they hadn't already started on the way from Cairns of course!!).

It didn't take long for them to join us in the pool for the afternoon.



The skies greyed as we headed over to the beach for our first guest meet up - it started to drizzle! Spirits still high, we madly texted everyone we could think of, inviting them back to Coral Seas instead. Soon people started wandering up the driveway - there was Louise and Daniel, Eileen & Kim and Tracy and Dean! Dennis and Robyn - Kat and Matt and David and Andrea... more and more familiar faces appeared and  we all toasted the beginning of this exciting adventure with drinks and snacks.

As dusk approached, the rain cleared and we found ourselves at the beach afterall, the boys kicking the footy and Kate and I wandered off to check out a hidden path through the trees.

We met most guests at the Iron Bar again that night, this time with tickets to see the Cane Toad Races. Our friend Nick wasn't running them but it was still a hoot. Kat got up, as did Dean and Kate - I'll never forget when the MC coaxed Kate towards the bucket (again) to pick up her toad, then madly shook the bucket causing her to squeal!

We stayed around for the band and had a few dances but moved on soon after as they weren't taking our requests! Next stop - the Courthouse Hotel where an accoustic performer was playing downstairs...SOMEONE kept refreshing my glass after every sip and I quickly decided I'd had just about enough for one evening. On the way back home Trav and I did an awful practice of our dance in the Port Village courtyard.

3 sleeps... Michelle's Birthday

Everytime I tried to roll over last night I’d see another hour on the clock, finally finally it was time to get up. My dream hadn’t been quite as difficult as the night before, I think I was chasing someone on my bike.

I laid there for another minute or two, trying to feel if my back had miraculously improved, I really didn’t want to sit in cattle class for 3 hours as I was. No such luck, another smearing of Voltaren at least it’s not so stinky) and we were off.

Marian dropped us of at Tullamarine by about 5am – this was the time we had planned to leave originally! No sooner had we stepped out of the car than we heard ‘Hello Wendy’ and Leon, Kylie and Louise were at our side. This was it! It was all starting, just like I’d imagined for so long. We all lined up for check-in, I was mentally calculating how much extra we’d be charged as Anthony and his family walked up!

We got through check-in with a friendly warning and then held our breath as we approached the X-Ray for cabin baggage. We were nearly through…. Ahhhh sigh of relief, not an eyebrow was raised as all our bags, containing liquids, crystal glasses etc went through. It’s coffee time!

I was feeling kinda woozy at this stage, just nerves? I don’t mind flying, that wasn’t it… maybe its that ‘we’re getting away with this feeling’ – nothing wrong with that!

Finally we boarded our flight and the flight attendant asked to sneak a peek at my dress on the way out – Trav laid our clothes along the lockers as well as possibly, but there wasn’t much room. I got the window seat, with Trav in the middle and Mum on the aisle. 

As the sun rose in the east, we were able to enjoy the view from the left side of the plane. Mly about 20 minutes after take off the pilot announced that we should be arriving about 15 minues earlier that schedule – this was getting better and better! I read, did brainteasers, tried to sleep. Tried to stretch. Tried to sleep. 

We touched down at 9:10 – 25 minutes early and as we walked off the plane we got our first mouthful of that heavy, warm Cairns air. As we were finding our luggage on the carousels I handed out everyone’s welcome postcards – they were thrilled (I added Jason to Megan’s card before realizing I had spares, I just hadn’t had the time to rewrite his sans Alisha).

I waited with the bags while Trav and Mum picked up the hire car and soon we’d stopped off at 1^st choice and Coles and were finally on the Captain Cook Highway, paradise-bound.

It was amazing to be driving past all these familiar landmarks, the Sky Rail, go karts and crocodile farm – especially with Mum in the car too. I just kept turning to Travis in complete awe – we were actually doing this!

Rolling into Port Douglas we did a short tour before pulling into Coral Sea Villas. Bruno was out the front and I gave him a big hug. Our room was ready so we loaded everything in and also met their daughters Joni and Ella.

We wandered into town and dropped off the rest of the postcards, stopping to visit Shaun and show mum the Chapel on the way.

Finally, it was time to open a bottle of bubbly and celebrate! We took a dip in the pool (yes it was a cloudy day and I still went it) in the hope that it might relieve my back pain but once again, no luck.

By the time Michelle and Ryan pulled up Trav and I headed to Lure to go through a few things with Wayne and drop off all the supplies. Wayne talked us through where the tables might go, and a few other details and I was amazed at just how blasé I was about it all, nothing really bothered me and I couldn’t make a decision. His only bad news was that he couldn’t get any of our first preference wines – which also didn’t phase my in the slightest. We agreed we’d either meet him or Kylie on Thursday and Nick might come along too.

We raced back up to Coral Seas for a quick change and to pick the others up for dinner at the Iron Bar. With relief I heard Ryan grumbling that they’re always late in Charleville too, ha ha can’t blame me this time!

I marched down Macrossan st with Trav threatening to give me a ticket if I didn’t slow down to a meander. I guess I was still easing into Queensland time.

Leon, Kylie and Louise as well as Lara & Tennille were all out the front and we took our seats. Mmmm the scallops were good, if only I’d ordered two servings! As it turned out I got to polish off the chips so we were all happy. 

We all wished Michelle a happy birthday and then halfway through dinner a flustered waitress ducked under our table in pursuit of a cane toad! Leon had felt something wet on his leg but thought it might be a dog’s nose.

Needless to say we all squealed and pulled our knees up to our chins as the cane toad was caught and returned to his bucket. We saw the start of Nick’s cane toad show but everyone was exhausted so we called it a night.

Mum Michelle and Ryan joined us in our room and Michelle and Mum helped me with scroll ribbons while Trav and Ryan made the little lanterns… I went to bed hoping like crazy that I’d wake up feeling 29, not 99!

4 sleeps... crazy

Well I know I was feeling calm yesterday but after a shocking night's sleep and a couple of odd dreams, I woke up edgy, nervy and shaky.

In my first dream I got to hug Michael Buble (I know I know) but in the second dream I was trying to put our suitcases into our room though the upstairs window (which had a pool as a balcony so that didn't help at all).

I was so worried about forgetting all sorts of things and still had a few things to tie up - print the menus, get the wine list from Lure, send out running sheets to our dream team, print copies for us, make the reception music cd, do washing, change the sheets pack our toiletries and Trav still hadn't sorted out his shirt. 

It was lunchtime. All I did was lean over to grab a tea towel and BAM! A piercing pain went through my back and from then on I was walking like an 80 year old. For no apparent reason my old lower back pain returned – just as Trav’s neck improved. He gave it to my back from his neck he said…

After lunch I was feeling a bit more relaxed about our to-do list, but maybe that’s because my attention had moved to my back instead. We managed to get away by 3:30, and after a short stop at highpoint for some last minute essentials we were finally on our way to Sunbury.

We started shuffling our suitcases with Mum’s stuff, whatever way we looked at it we were about 4 kilos over our limit. Time to have dinner with the McIntosh’s before we reassess. It was such a lovely evening, Mum proposed a toast to how well we all get along (compared to some In-Law stories) and we all agreed that we’d had a great time planning it all. A delicious roast chicken and vegie dinner was the perfect comfort meal for our last Melbourne night!

My back was still holding me back, even after a few sprays of Deep Heat and more Voltaren…please please go away.

Back at Mum’s she and Trav maneuvered our holiday packing again while I took a nice warm shower. We agreed to be up by 4 and out the door by 4:30 and were in bed around 10.

I'm still feeling really panicky - just want to be as relaxed as I was yesterday - I hope it goes away soon...

5 sleeps... Rossi goes on holidays

On Sunday morning I woke up after a brilliant sleep. Long, warm and no noise to wake us up too early - just Rossi's gentle snoring.

He must have sensed something was going on because he didn't touch his breakfast at all. After a trip to officeworks and spotlight, we headed down to Grovedale to deliver him to Lynne, his breeder who was looking forward to having him stay. We went through his medicines and routine and Lynne promised to take a photo if he snuggled up with Bella.

Rossi was looking very confused as we kissed him goodbye and drove away.

I dropped in for a cocoa with Tamra on the way home and chatted to Louise after our delicious dinner of steak with caramelised onions and duck fat potatoes. Yummy!

6 sleeps... slow it down

I know I'm relaxing when I have a bowl of popcorn and a glass of wine next to me as I write this on Trav's latop in bed!

I had the best sleep last night, Rossi was snoring peacefully and we weren't woken up by the sound of a skip at 7am. But what a typical Melbourne winter, I took both my umbrella and sunglasses along when I wandered down to Waxed & Relaxed for a morning of beauty treatments, and I needed both!

We dropped into North Melbourne to pick up my shoes before heading to Essendon, nice and early for our massages. We ducked into a factory outlet while we were waiting and I sent Kate some pics of cute silver sandals - it's been so much fun helping lots of guests with their outfits - from going shopping with Mum, shopping with Deborah and joining Kat for her high-heel training!


The massage was just lovely, my mind was still busy but I did my very best to concentrate on nothing else but the music and the hands. Our neck, back, shoulders and legs were all massaged and I wondered how Trav was going with the foot massage - he later told me that they'd skipped that after all, how did she know??
At the end a steaming hot towel was put on my back to soak up the oil - bliss!

We walked out of there completely relaxed.

We spent the evening packing everything into our suitcases, and with the help of Kat's scales, found that there would be some shuffling to do at Mum's place - we were pretty close to our quota, even though I was sure the scales were adding a few extra kilos!

7 sleeps... running around town

What an action-packed day! It was one of those days that, when you climb into bed at the end of it all, you can't quite believe what you were doing at the beginning.

We woke up to the sound of construction works across the road, our sleep-in was shortlived - even though I was covering our ears with my hands.

We had a difficut start this morning, when Trav came downstairs in the morning he just caught Rossi having another seizure. We were both there together for the first time. I'm sure the last one was in April, which scares me because it's reoccured a lot faster than all the others. What else can we possibly try that might help our little man?

Once we'd all recovered from the rough morning, Trav and I headed into town where I met Kate at Brides of Melbourne for my FINAL try-on and dress pick-up. Once again I was so glad to have company. An overly smiley assistant named Cath helped me into the fitting room and all she could tell me was that it was all done. Hmmm, I asked to see Allison for my own peace of mind.

Before I even put the dress on I noticed just how nice it looked inside - they'd taken the cups and sewn them inside the lining, rather that leaving them tacked on as Wendy's team had. Bonus points!

This time I didn't even bother taking my leggings off and I stepped out of the fitting room to see Louisa for the very last time. She had no idea what had happened that week and as I took my final 'walk' she declared that my husband would run down the aisle to me!

Allison came out and confirmed that they'd fixed up the skirt without a problem and Kate and I could see with great relief that the skirt was very even, and the front lace panel had been moved up to match. Satisfied, I arranged to pick up the dress later that morning.

As Kate reluctantly returned up the hill to work, I met Trav at ADC and we wandered over to Laurent for a breakfast of croissants and lattes.

It was 11:30 by the time we arrived at Arthur Murray unannounced (for the first time today), the studio was closed and dark, we could hear the phone ringing and the answering machine kick in as we waited, deciding what to do. It was a bit surprising considering they advertised 10am to 10pm opening hours.

I returned to Brides of Melbourne with Travis, who graciously turned around as I inspected my gown to make sure it was indeed mine. He asked whether the puffy sleeves were being sent up directly, and quipped that he'd seen the road train carrying the rest of the dress leave this morning. 

Trav offered to carry it for the first couple of minutes, before deciding that it wasn't doing much for his image and promptly swapping it for the bag containing our dancing shoes. I suggested that any young lady would melt at the sight of him carrying a VID (very important dress) and he agreed that they would sigh with regret that another good man was about to be off the market - why else would Louise and Tamra be wearing black dresses??

Our day continued with a visit to the Collingwood Football Club, where I luckily rescued one of the groomsmen's gifts from the Australia Post bag, only to find that they'd packed the wrong size, talk about timing! Next up - Boyles dance shoe store in Prahan, after finding that all the heel grips were still too big for my heels, we took their advice and headed to a shoe repair store in North Melbourne who would replace the cheap plastic heels with rubber-absolutely-non-slip ones.

We scoffed our pork rolls at home on the couch before I headed up the highway to see mum. Without time to try on the dress, we laid it out and were happy to see that the semicircles matched up this time. Crisis officially over.

Mum showed me the finishing touches she'd put on our little project and then I spent the rest of the afternoon with Kimberly of Karma Hairdressing, we set a date for my PWC (Post Wedding Chop) and Kimberley almost had a tear in her eye as she recalled my wedding gown and wished us all the very best. My colour was finished in record time - apparently it does take a lot faster if the client has a lot going on at the time. Our carefully planned colouring hit a high - we were both really excited with the result and I walked out of there positively beaming.

Hitting the highway I hoped I'd make it in time to catch a few of Trav's workmates before their drinks wrapped up and their long weekend began....
On the way I got a fair ribbing from Louise about my 'to-the-minute' running sheet but have to say, it was load off my mind when I sent it out. I knew that it meant I wasn't the only one who knows what's going on next week and I'll be able to happily put down my memory stick and pick up a Mango Daiquiri as I resign from my wedding coordinator role and Trav steps down from his TRAVel agent role!

Arriving at VU about 7pm, there were a couple of guys left and we chuckled over a drink with Dan, Warren (the fijian-indian), Trish and Mick before making our way back to the car.

Walking down the hill, Trav said the words "I think if we knocked out 2 good practices at home, why don't we go into the city."

....it took me a few seconds to understant what he meant. I
d totally forgot that we'd originally been asked along to the social night to peform our wedding dance tonight...he actually wanted to do it. He'd originally written it ff because he thought he;d havve too many drinls and didn't even expect to ave the bus-stop under control let alone our routine!

'Are you sure???" I panicked... he confessed he'd been feeling really low about our last practice and wanted to really show Sim that we knew wht we were doing. "OK" I offered, unconvincingly.

t home we moved the couches >again< and practiced. and practiced. and practiced. Rossi was under our feet so Trav moved him and hi bed to the couch and we practiced aain. and AGAIN.

To be percetly honest, after the fist 4, I didn't think we were readyu at all to make the trip downtown, but we persisted and after knocking out 2 good ones, I changed and we were in the car headed for Bourke st.

I couldn't believe he was serious! My Trav doesnt dance until I beg him, i started to feel like the whole night was a deam, my Trav - draging me onto the dancefloor, on a night we'd already declined once. I started to feel like I was in the end of 'Shall we dance' when Mr Clark showed up unanounced at the going away party...

I was still aving trouble believing it as we drvove into town, I was thinking to myself, "this will either be a xomplete success or a complete flop, it's up to us".

We stepped into the elevator. pressed "M" for Mezzanine. We could hear the music as soon as the elevator door opened. We looked at each other. This was it. I pushed open the door, my bag got caught as Francesca looked up from her group class and said

OH
MY
GOD
This couple will be presenting their wedding routine to us tonight!!!


The next hour was all practice, and again, and again. We did really well only a few minor slips and were both feeling very confident....

We were both having a ball, and soon enough we were on. We completed the routine to applause and there was only one time when I'd skipped half a step so we'd finished about 2 seconds before the music. Sim was so proud of us and Francesca walked in just as we'd finished - after all that excitement!

It was about 9:15 by the time we headed over to the dumpling place for a late dinner. It was the same one we'd dined at after our very first lesson too!

Disclaimer: Any typos are due to the fact I was using Trav's Mac rather than a standard keyboard. live with it.