Then he let our feet grace across the sacred turf, which was actually in need of some work.  Some disease has attacked the grass.  Rumor is the desecration first appeared after the MSU players planted their flag on the 50 yard line.  Anyway, we were able to run a few routes and feel the ghosts of a storied tradition seep into our bones.

Is that Rockne looking over his troops?


Rudy is no longer the only person to be carried off the field.

The only disappointment came when we were denied access to the locker room, and I was unable to deliver a thundering rendition of the Rockne pre-game speech I have memorized.  Nonetheless, we walked across campus from college football’s Cathedral to the Basilica with an extra hop in our step.  “Game day” was almost here.  After showing my cousin Brad the record 7 Heisman Trophies (he’s a Miami Hurricane guy, so he’s more familiar with handcuffs than Heisman hardware), we practiced for the main event.  It went like clockwork, because it had to.  There are 4 weddings every Saturday, so they have to roll through all the rehearsals.

We finished up the evening with a wonderful dinner at the Inn, thanks to my dad, Glen.  Both of our dads gave touching, heartfelt toasts and Reffett gave an inspired blessing.  We watched a video highlighting our path to each other, which can be seen here.  Also, Sarah and I were happy to give a small token of our appreciation to the wedding party and special guests.

We were ready.  As guests poured into South Bend from all over the country, the stage was set for the most heavenly of "game days."