RuedeBuhr Road Rage–Day Eighteen

Today we loaded up and started the long drive from Fort Collins, CO back to Seattle, WA, via Yellowstone National Park.  The day turned hot, and we draped damp towels over both dogs to keep them cool.

I drove, and Kelly lounged in the back of the RV enjoying the amazing western vistas that opened before us.

After about four hours on the road, we stopped at a spectacular outcropping of rock near Split Rock, WY. We unloaded the boys and started up to take in the view.

Along the way, the boys paused for a drink at a sink hole in the rock.

The view from the top was indeed spectacular.

The boys found a grassy area in which to wrestle.

 

We paused to reflect on how much we were enjoying the trip and each other.

As the wind was howling over the prairie, we decided to make our way back to the RV through the maze of house sized boulders.

Once back in the parking lot, we loaded up and I drove us into the sunset with Cooper riding shotgun.

Ruedebuhr Road Rage–Day Seventeen

Today was Dave and Paula’s BIG DAY!  I reflected on the fact that our wedding was only a few months away…

I shared this fact with Kelly, and we shared a moment.

Dave showed up to the venue looking tightly wound…

Ginger, on the other hand, seemed relieved that nothing had exploded to this point.

Before things kicked off, Kelly took some time to hang with Cory and Vihn.

Kelly also had a chance to catch up with Papa (aka Grandpa Ruedebusch)

Kelly and I had our picture snapped just before everyone moved to the lawn where the ceremony would be held.

Finally, we were all seated, and Dave walked his mother to her seat.

After the bridesmaids were escorted in, Paula made her appearance, looking every inch the bride.

The ceremony was presided over by the director of the summer camp where Dave and Paula met.  This was also the camp that all three Ruedebusch kids attended as children.

We quickly go to the “..do you…” part.  Everyone held their breath, but Paula grinned and came through with flying colors.  The happy couple made a big finish and were pronounced man and wife.

We adjourned for group pictures.

Ginger (Kelly’s mom) took the opportunity to have a picture taken with all her siblings (Diane, Alan, Ginger, and Joan).

Vihn took all this in from his knee high vantage point.

The reception kicked off with the traditional bride and groom dance.  Not a dry eye in the house…

Then, while Dave and Paula worked the room and caught up with all their guests, Kelly caught up with her parents and grandfather.