Yep, Travis was married, again. Not sure why it took two tries but can speculate. Perhaps Travis didn’t get “it” the first time. Or, maybe Aki wanted to be sure the marriage stuck (poor thing). Or maybe Aki wanted a formal ceremony since the first time satisfied the IRS and immigration, now this was for God and Family. Perhaps you have other ideas. Sure wasn't because Travis wanted to do the honorable thing - no grandchild in view.The ceremony was held in the Shakespeare Garden in Golden Gate Park. Aki planned the wedding and reception, drawing on her past experience as a wedding planner. She did a magnificent job.
Hazel and I were excited and thoroughly enjoyed the rehersal dinner, wedding and reception. It was the first opportunity we had to meet Aki's family and, although we had a little trouble communicating, found them to be very warm and friendly. Aki's folks live in Japan and their command of English, although much better then our Japanese, was limited.
The rehersal dinner was at Travis and Aki's new home in San Francisco. Even though work was being done on part of the house which limited space (not part of the original program) the relaxed and close atmosphere did much to remove our unease at meeting new family and the difficulties of communicating.
Mr. and Mrs. Hara, Aki's parents, brought some delicious saki. I'll admit that I was reluctant to try it at first having experienced some saki that was not impressive. Theirs was great, arigato gozaimasu.
I hadn't realized that saki, like wine can have such a wide variety of flavors and quality.
There were a few tears but many more smiles and laughter.
...and more.
