Ali's Wedding!!!!

We feel so fortunate to have been able to attend Ali and Malu's (Larry's) sealing in the Reno temple. It was a red letter year for the Andersen family as they had 3 of their children sealed in 2 months. It was a beautiful sealing and I was grateful to be there. They, like us, have a lot of support and love. There were so many special people in attendance. It was a spiritual experience.
Once at the temple it was a bit of a scramble trying to figure out what to do with our kids. We had arranged for Brian's siblings to watch them, but the parking lot was full and they weren't there. Fortunately Malu's little sister took on the daunting taste of 8 children... though Brian's siblings showed up right behind us. It was very windy, but it was a beautiful day nevertheless. Our little man wore his new suit and slept ALL day...literally and night. We discovered that when there is a lot of chaos he goes on shut down mode and sleeps. He slept all through the sealing and all through the reception.
The kids enjoyed themselves and will probably always fondly remember this time with cousins... and minimal supervision as all the adults enjoyed talking with one another.
Xiana is pretty sure that Rowan belongs to her. She has a difficult time sharing him with her other cousins, particularly Tysen which is problematic for poor Rowan who craves boy time. In the end it turned out there was enough of Rowan to go around.
We didn't get a single shot where one or more of us didn't have eyes closed... This one will have to do.
The kids were anxiously awaiting their aunt's departure from the temple. They even began chanting, "Ali, Ali, Ali." This became something of a repetitive behaviour throughout the evening. It was darling.
And here is the happy couple. It was difficult to get a decent shot as her cameraman had multiple cameras and there were 2 videos being made. Their green lays were striking against their white clothing. They were stunning!
Ali giving some love to her very first niece. She and Ekco have such a special bond as they spent a great deal of time together when Brian had Ekco on the weekends at his folk's house where Ali still lived.
And of course Xiana had to get in there and touch the princess.
Ali is the only girl in her family and I'm sure this was an emotional day for all the men in her life :)
Me and little man waiting for pictures to be completed.
I love this shot... and I love this little guy... and I love the temple grounds.
The kids didn't waste a second when we arrived at the reception. They literally danced the night away.
The spun and boogied like I have never seen them do before.
Great grandma Leavitt held Kolton until her arm fell asleep. I really wish we would have taken this opportunity to get a four generation photo, but I guess there are plenty of them in Ali's arsenal.
The reception was a blast and included live performances by the bride, groom, family, and friends. They also showed a touching video of their courtship and eternal commitment.
Ali was as radiant as any bride I've ever seen.
And Ekco and Xiana were perfectly matched and danced until their cheeks turned red. When it was time for me to leave Ekco wasn't finished so she stayed behind with Brian until the VERY end of the night.
dancing and dancing and dancing....
They had so much fun. This was one of the most entertaining receptions I have ever been to. It was beautiful and successful! Congratulations to the happy couple!!!