Hi everyone. I’m Linda, Emily’s mom. I’ve got to admit, I’m a bit nervous up here. Public speaking isn’t really my thing, but for my little girl, I’ll give it a shot.
First off, thanks to all of you for coming. I know some of you traveled pretty far, and well, the Thompson family really appreciates it.
You know, it’s funny. I remember the day Emily was born like it was yesterday. She came into this world kicking and screaming – and let me tell you, that girl had some lungs on her! Little did I know that same determination would lead her to become the amazing woman she is today.
Emily, sweetie, where are you? Oh, there you are! You probably don’t want your old mom embarrassing you, but tough luck, kiddo. It’s my job.
I could tell you all about how Emily was a perfect angel growing up, but let’s be real – she wasn’t. Remember that time you decided to give the dog a haircut? Poor Buddy looked like a patchwork quilt for months! But you know what? Even then, your heart was in the right place. You’ve always tried to make things better, even when it didn’t quite work out.
And Michael – oh, Michael. The first time Emily brought you home, I’ll be honest, I was skeptical. I mean, what mother isn’t when her daughter brings home a boy? But then you fixed our leaky faucet without even being asked, and well, I started to think maybe you weren’t so bad after all.
You two, you’re quite the pair. Emily with her big dreams and Michael with his steady calm. It’s like… oh, what’s that saying? Yin and yang? Yeah, that’s it. You balance each other out.
Now, I’m not going to stand here and pretend I have all the answers about marriage. Lord knows your father and I have had our ups and downs. But we’re still here, aren’t we, honey?
So, here’s my advice, for what it’s worth: Laugh together, even when things are tough. Don’t go to bed angry – but if you do, make sure you make up with pancakes in the morning. And always, always remember why you fell in love in the first place.
Emily, Michael, I love you both more than words can say. I’m not just gaining a son-in-law today; I’m gaining another child to worry about. But I wouldn’t have it any other way.
So, let’s raise our glasses, shall we? To Emily and Michael – may your love story be one for the ages, full of adventure, laughter, and lots of grandbabies for me to spoil. Cheers!
Oh, and Michael? Welcome to the family, sweetie. We’re a bit crazy, but I promise we’ll grow on you. Eventually.