When Mischief Gets Married

I have a wedding to go to in Memphis in February. I haven't quite gotten my head around that one yet as they just got engaged in September but the formal invite arrived on Friday and I opened over beer and BBQ. The surreal mental swim may also have something to do with the fact that my high school crush and college make-out buddy is the one getting hitched.

Bri & Benjy- I'm going there.

When I was in high school I was lucky enough to have been adopted by a tight group of football players who attended our crosstown rival. A year older than me, "The Crew" (I think every high school had a "Crew") was fairly notorious in their own school but they are surprisingly what allowed me to keep my wits about me for as long as I did.

And by that I mean I got to go to all of the parties but didn't drink; got the inside scoop on birds, bees and Varsity Blues without learning the hard way (by being "easy").

The gang at Benjy & Caroline's wedding in 05

They talked a big game about a lot of other girls but were protective of me in my formative years (when do those end?). Looking back, they are responsible for some of my best memories, most sincere lessons and continue to be excellent friends. My first date, first kiss, oldest friends, and protectors all in one place where all kinds of irreverent things were asked and answered but where I always felt respected- put on the sidelines in the best possible way.

So now, the second among them is getting married- one I pined for on and off from 10th grade on. I've not met his bride, she's somehow never been out with us when I've been home, but understand her to be lovely. I even had the distinction of being their first wedding gift- a deep fryer that was on their registry (some days I really do get nostalgic for the South).

Let's also be crystal clear: This person is not an ex. Not at all. He was Mischief and will be remembered fondly as such. You know - big dark eyes, big deep voice and a sensitive side (but don't tell). Someone who was always dating some other (always gorgeous) girl which made the pining remarkably simple 90% of the time. Before and After the big Ex in college, he stood as a charged bookend separating very different times in my life. More recently (post-college life) he has been a friend, one who I largely get updates on from the others. And now he is a friend who is making the big jump and this is a very good thing.

Doesn't mean I don't want to look damn good at the wedding though.

Banana Republic Asymmetrical Dress

Getty Citrine Triple Link by Alexis Bittar

Nine West "Reedy" at PiperLime.com