I typically prefer to write fiction, particularly something that involves a bit of creepiness. However, a recent family event inspired me to write something different. My daughter, Rachael, got married on May 10^th, 2019. She and her husband, Troy, have now begun an exciting new chapter in their lives.

The jubilation everyone felt went beyond the actual wedding day commemoration. It started with the arrival of family and friends before the big day, then continued to mushroom throughout the week and beyond. The duration of celebrating lasted more than two weeks.

One of the first things several of us enjoyed was going to a local outdoor spa. The tropical setting was beautiful. We soaked in various spas, spent time lathered in warm mud in their natural spring, and giggled up a storm while sweating in a sauna. The food was delicious, as were the alcoholic spirits.

Photo by Donna Trovato

On a breezy afternoon, we headed up the mountains to enjoy some lunch at a Roadhouse. Eating our meals while overlooking the lake below was delightful. We also had a good laugh over their…well, let’s just say less than clean Port-A-Potties. On two separate days we inundated our local salon to get pedicures, then manicures. We were quite entertained and amused by one hilariously outspoken nail technician. Late one evening, we sat on the front lawn around the fire pit, and had fun playing a game meant for adults. If you noticed, I didn’t say “mature audience,” because I’m not sure that we’d actually qualify. Our game-playing may or may not have involved a few drinks. Essentially, the time spent was joyous and memorable.

Throughout our time spent together, my mind frequently reflected on my daughter’s upbringing, and the substantial joy she has brought into my life. She’s beautiful, sweet, caring, highly intelligent, funny, respectful, responsible, witty, and her sarcasm has generated many fits of laughter. Twenty-six and a half years ago, that eight pounds, one-ounce little arrival came packed with the best qualities any parent could hope for. As she grew, we learned of the depth of her love for all things nature–even disgusting little creatures with far too many legs. Her compassion and curiosity are unending and impressive; it’s simply innate.

This brings me to Rachael’s decision to include a sloth during cocktail hour at her wedding. Paco, the sloth, was a huge hit, and the guests thoroughly enjoyed feeding him.

Photo by Jeff and Francis Castro-Norwood

I remembered a time when Rachael was very young. She had seen an “adorable” rat hanging out in our backyard planter wall, and she just had to pet the little critter. When she reached over toward it, she was met with hostility; the long-tailed varmint nipped her on the finger. However, the incident did not diminish her love for all living things.

Throughout her childhood, Rachael and her brother, Jeff, consistently had a pet or two of sorts. They’ve had a turtle, a couple of snakes, a bearded dragon, a mouse, some hermit crabs, a couple of guinea pigs, and cats and dogs. Rachael and Jeff have always been close, and disagreements were minimal. Their bond has carried over into adulthood, and she affectionately refers to him as The Wolverine, or Jake Justice.

As a teen, Rachael and her little brother, Alex, collected snails and painted a few designs on their shells. Rachael even added the name Bob on the back of one little guy. To this day, we refer to all snails as Bobs, and we go out of our way not to accidentally step on them.

Fast forward to her late teens. Rachael found her soulmate, Troy. We absolutely adore him. He is handsome, charismatic, kind, bright, comical, considerate, dependable, humorous, and has the same sense of sarcasm as Rachael. The two of them fit so perfectly together. At times, he is more outgoing, and, at times, she is more adventurous. This ends up creating a balanced and fulfilling relationship. As a parent, it’s quite lovely to see.

Their special day was held at a beautiful winery in Temecula, California. The outdoor ceremony offered breathtaking views of the vineyards, visible from every angle. It was made even more special since my brother, Michael, officiated the wedding. The arched arbor in which Rachael and Troy stood beneath was draped with luxurious fabric and included hydrangeas, blush stock, roses, and snapdragons. It was magical to witness them recite their vows–sentiments they’d created with endearing authenticity. After the ceremony, the second story indoor cocktail and hors d’ oeuvres hour offered the same awe-inspiring views–and Paco, the sloth.

The reception was held inside the winery’s barrel room. It was the most beautiful setting with the perfect ambiance. The lighting was dimmed, candles were scattered throughout, and fragrant floral arrangements adorned the tables. It created the ideal environment to celebrate the love of Rachael and Troy–uniting to begin a new chapter.

The two of them opted for an intimate sweetheart table during their wedding reception.

Photo by Jeff and Francis Castro-Norwood

After a fantastic evening full of warmth, love, and a whole lot of dancing, we hosted a brunch at our house the following morning. The day was filled with family, friends, food, and reminiscing. Later that evening, the newlyweds headed out for a very long flight to honeymoon in Fiji.

My sister, Debbie, and I thoroughly enjoyed stalking Rachael’s Instagram as she posted photos at the end of every honeymoon day. We couldn’t wait to see what adventure Rachael and Troy had experienced. Our morning perusal of Instagram filled us with vicarious excitement.

Rachael and Troy experienced traditional Fijiian foods, swam in the lavish resort pool, got a beachside cabana couples massage, enjoyed afternoon high tea, visited a temple, botanical gardens, mud bath/natural hot springs, scuba-dived, horseback rode on a beach, toured the local school/village, farmer’s market, watched a tribal drumming ceremony, a sunset fire dance, and participated in a traditional kava ceremony. Of course, Rachael also spent time trying to catch frogs, geckos, skinks and hung out in the tide pools to search for all sorts of critters.

Photo by Rachael Osborn and Troy Gunter

The newlyweds are creating a marvelous life together, and are homeowners residing in Massachusetts. Rachael is a Lab Technician, and Troy is an Emergency Dispatcher. One of my favorite sayings that I hope for them always to remember is, “Live well, Laugh often, Love much.” – Bessie Anderson Stanley

Photo by Rachael Osborn and Troy Gunter

May their life together be as wondrous, as captivating, as magnificent, and as complete as this image from Fiji. Onward and upward–onto a new chapter.