The Mobile Reception

Steve

Steve is an autistic adult who was never supposed to speak. The doctors recommended that he be institutionalized. Fortunately, his parents decided to ignore the advice.

Today, Steve is a thriving adult who holds a steady job and who talks quite well. Steve does have a few quirks, as we discovered when my husband asked him to be an attendant at our wedding. He mentioned that we were getting married on a bowling night. We didn’t think much about the statement until the big day got a little closer.

A Little Change of Plan

It wasn’t until Steve was trying on tuxedos that he said, “I need to go bowling on Saturday, November 8th (the wedding day). My high score is 223 and I am going to beat it. Thanks, anyway.”

When my husband pressed the issue, Steve became very anxious. Looking at Shawn with his puppy-eyes he said, "I don't have to worry about it?"

"No worries," my husband replied.

Fine. Two bridesmaids and two attendants. This will work. Steve could attend the wedding at the church as an observer, stop in at the reception for dinner and be on his way to the bowling alley in plenty of time for his game. This plan was perfect. Steve had another plan.

The Runaway Guest

Both Steve and his father were missing during the church ceremony. As my husband and I nodded to the passers by in the reception line, we saw Steve’s father having an intense discussion with Helen. Steve was too nervous to come to the church. He was afraid that he would miss bowling.

Fine. One guest missing at the church. No problem. There’s always the reception.

Have Reception, Will Travel

Steve and Family

There was no Steve at the reception. We got word that he was housed in the bowling alley afraid that he would miss his game if he went to the event. This was the last straw. If he wasn’t coming to the reception, the reception was coming to him.

My husband and I made a trip to the bowling alley followed by the other attendants and a few confused guests. We were a little overdressed for the place, but after a couple of beers, we blended. Of course, we were late for our own reception and of course, Steve beat his high score.

Lesson Learned

His sister is getting married next year. She chose a wedding date that would not conflict with her brother’s bowling schedule. He’s just not allowed to join the dart league for another year.