Well I was so glad to get back to church on Sunday. Our pastor made a good call for the former week so we Methodists weren’t in danger on the road due to ice and snow problems. I’m addicted to that wonderful time of the week, plus my sweet church, and I love seeing my Methodist brothers and sisters, plus hearing a message from His book.

But, I had a great time the day before, at The Carmichael House in Jackson, Ga. I grew up near that awesome antebellum mansion, and loved trick or treating there, plus I enjoyed the time we had tea and scones in his gazebo. The Carmichael house now has an event venue and they provide a great way to celebrate with family and friends. My grandson Tyler was nice enough to let me ride with him and Alexis. We parked behind the venue, and made our way up to the large building where staff were arranging chairs. I had a nice visit with some great people, and loved seeing my family all dressed up, too. Our granddaughter Melissa and her love had planned their wedding there last January, but COVID canceled large gatherings, so they took their vows without being surrounded by family and friends. It was neat that they had a wonderful ceremony with a room full of their favorite dears. Watching the wedding was wonderful, then they had a Father-daughter dance, plus lots more. A delicious buffet followed, and then a DJ played songs as many filled the dance floor. There was a little area with lots of costume items, giving us the ability to take family pictures wearing different hats, and lots more. I didn’t see the massive wedding cake, but I heard it was delicious.

I was so glad I got to be there and loved seeing all the familiar faces too. I would have gone into The Carmichael House, but I wasn’t sure when we needed to line up to enter the wedding venue. Upon researching The Carmichael House I learned that construction started in 1897 and finished in 1898. Mr. Carmichael, the original owner, built buggies; that was before Ford Motor Company opened. The Mr. Carmichael that I knew had started out with buggies in his job for a power company and then began driving a more modern vehicle as he repaired lines and erected poles in Butts County and the surrounding area. I loved the way he decorated The Carmichael House for Halloween and then Christmas. I was amazed this time to see the home covered in lots of glowing white lights as we arrived, and then left. I’m glad some daring people took over the home, brought it all up to date, and turned it into a venue for weddings and other celebrations. When I looked it up online I got to take a tour of all the rooms, plus the outside and lots more.

I enjoyed watching my son Ron administer the wedding, and of course listening to Melissa and her Matthew repeat their vows. Now have two Matthews in the family and I was VERY proud of grandson Matthew ushering family members down to our saved seats. It was interesting watching the event employees removing all the chairs and then bringing out the tables for our dining enjoyment. The DJ called out our table numbers in an orderly manner so there were no long lines at the buffet. The food was delicious, but I didn’t try the shrimp and grits. Thanks to Melissa and her Mom, Julie for planning such a wonderful wedding day!

I’m glad I grew up near that antebellum home and was delighted that Melissa and Matthew’s ceremony took me there again. And of course I loved seeing many sweet smiles, plus got a few hugs.

Beverly Wittler has four children, eight grandchildren and one great-granddaughter. She lives in McDonough.