Grace, Giggles and Grins...Portrait of a Royal Wedding

As the world watched the story of "William and Kate" unfold, reactions of the royal wedding varied. Some people were so caught up in the fairy tale, that they made their way across the pond to catch a glimpse and a wave. Others boycotted the news, due to excessive coverage of the extravagant event. I, too, struggled with both the excitement, and the absurdity.

However, the royal wedding was a portrait of prancing white horses, carriage rides, dazzling hats, parades of color, drums and bells...and two young people exchanging vows in the echo of an abbey. Don't be deceived by the pomp and circumstance. As with any art, the meaning lies beneath the surface. I sipped my coffee very early Friday morning, and searched for the meaning. This is what I found...

There were two little boys. How did they get so tall and strong? You can't help but notice their brotherly bond. Was it always there? Or did they fuse together while comforting each other in the early absence of their mom?

There was a beautiful girl. The slight tremble in her hand hinted at how nervous and overwhelmed she was. How does she step out of the car into this scene? She only manages to surface with the help of her proud father, who holds her hand. He supports her, as does her elegant sister, who gladly walks behind.

Brother Harry glances over his shoulder, and displays an impish grin. He can't wait for William to see the radiance walking into his life. He is happy for his brother!

There is a quiet expression of love between the two as William and Kate recite their vows. But the world explodes with exuberance as the married couple approaches the balcony! The bride is amazed and enchanted by the pulsating crowd. There is a kiss, some smiles, another kiss, and a giggle from Kate. If Diana were there, she would be happy for them. I can't help but think of how much she will miss.

A carriage ride is waiting for all, and I watch as two sets of parents face one another. Two different worlds in one little shell, awash in the happiness of their kids.

I have a feeling there was one helluva a good party to follow!

When you strip the bells and whistles from the portrait, here's what lies beneath...love, family, connection, friendship, tradition, and the sharing of hope for a happy future.

I'm glad I watched the grace, giggles, and grins of the royal wedding. Deep down, I think there's a little royalty in all of us!

Here is a cookie recipe that would surely please you, and the royals: Linzer Tarts! (It even sounds royal!) Linzer Tarts are a treat for any special event!

We offer it to you with love,

From Mama Melisi and Me

Linzer Tarts

Ingredients:

1/2 lb margarine
1/2 lb crisco
1 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 eggs
5 cups flour (sprinkle with a little cinnamon)

Directions:

Cream the 2 shortenings
Add sugar, vanilla and eggs
Beat well
Add the flour gradually, mixing well after each addition
Cool for about 1/2 hour in the refrigerator

Preheat oven to 350 degrees and line cookie sheets with parchment paper
Take a portion of the dough and roll out on a floured board (about 1/4 inch thick)
Cut with circle cutters - this will be the bottom of the cookie
Then prepare the same amount of circles for the top, but cut out small circle in the middle
(I use a thimble)
Make 1 tray for bottoms and 1 tray for the same amount of tops
Bake for 10 minutes or a little longer if necessary

When all circles are cool, place a teaspoon of Raspberry seedless jam on the bottoms
Top with the circle with the hole in the middle
Sprinkle with powdered sugar when serving