Christmas Wedding Bells

Must be something of a record, to have two Noades family events go off without a hitch.

My sister's wedding was today, and actually went really well. Was a small, no fuss event. They decided to get married in Bath (very picturesque Georgian city in the westcountry of England. Anthony Stewart Head lives nearby, so you Buffy obsessives will have seen the area in the latest season if nowhere else. ;)

Bath's a couple of hours drive from us, so I drove up this morning and my dad drove us back. I'd have ben happy to drive back as well, but at least I had the chance to celebrate with a glass of wine or two.

Anyway, I know Bath fairly well. Often holiday there for the occasional weekend with friends, and my sister's always liked it, so they decided to get married in the registry office there. Small affair with mostly our family, the grooms family and a few close friends. Around 20 of us in all I think.

My sister looked very nice in her white wedding suit, thankfully no formal duties needed to be performed. I looked after my nephew during the wedding service while my other sister acted as a witness and her husband videotaped. Not really a service exactly, more a 10 minute 'I do' session. I thought it a little too bief personally - I've been to registry office weddings before which were a little more involved, but my sister and husband seemed happy.

After the service I acted as official photographer - hopefully they'll get lots of nice shots. The weather was surprising, cold, but bright and clear. Here where I live it's been raining all day, so they were certainly lucky with that.

So after photos we adjurned to a nearby restaurant. Was a nice meal, good wine, pleasant informal atmosphere. Everyone seemed to enjoy it and we were there a good few hours. Champagne toast to celebrate the happy couple finished the meal off. All in all I don't think they could have asked for a nicer day.

So I have a new brother-in-law. A year ago my sister announced her engagement. Unfortunately it was to someone she'd been dating seven years, who she's since split up with as a few of you probably know. She hasn't known her new husband long, but I think it runs in our family that decisions as to spouses are instinctive. My mum and dad knew within one date they wanted to marry. With my other sister the decision was made within three months. With Sarah it's been pretty much the same. Tony, her new husband, is extremely pleasant and suits my sister down to the ground. He's quiet and restrained, but doesn't put up with too much nonsense, and resembles my other brother in law personality wise.

So everyone seems to be happy. I'm pleased, it's been a nice relaxed day for all concerned. Now to sleep.