Journey

“Love starts as a feeling ….. but to continue is a choice.  Sam and Caitlyn have pledged their love and commitment to each other today.  Please raise your glasses to the newlyweds.  We wish you love, good health, joy and adventure in abundance.”

On Saturday we experienced the joy of watching our son marry the woman he loves surrounded by their family and friends.  It was a moving ceremony and tears were flowing.  Caitlyn was beautiful and Sam very handsome.  Our hearts are full because Sam has found a partner who will accept him for who he is and love and care for him.  Welcome to the family Caitlyn.  We look forward to being part of your journey together  xox  (photos to come)

On Friday we helped set up for the wedding at Ohangai School.  It was the culmination of two years of planning by Caitlyn with help from the families, in particular her mum Tracey.  I had my hair and make-up done with Caitlyn, her mother and bridesmaids on Saturday morning.  This was well outside my comfort zone but I’m glad I did as it felt special for their wedding.  Even though it was very windy and showery they didn’t let it dampen their day.  There were many touching moments during the ceremony; Rory took up the rings in a box he had made with Peter at NP Men Shed, Colt gave a reading and was so overcome with emotion he cried, they remembered Poppa who passed away four months ago and thanked those who had travelled to be there.  Sam and Caitlyn read the heartfelt vows they had written.  Tracey and I were witnesses, signing the marriage license.  Cheering, whistles and clapping accompanied Sam and Caitlyn down the aisle as husband and wife.  Sean and Mike (the dad’s), Taylor (best man) and Krystal (bridesmaid) gave touching speeches.  Sam and Caitlyn’s first dance together as newly-weds was a sweet romantic moment, a continuation of their vows to one another. 

The wedding was definitely the highlight of the past three weeks.  Rory has had a couple of medical checks in amongst his usual activities.  The review at the Orthopaedic clinic didn’t produce anything new.  The arthritic changes in his spine are the result of a combination of radiotherapy and chemotherapy.  There is no treatment, only pain management.  We plan to see our GP to review his medication, being mindful of the impact on his kidney’s.  The annual Ophthalmology check showed Rory’s eyes remain healthy.  Rory and Colt enjoyed an evening event with Canteen Taranaki, learning how to be a DJ at Zeal Taranaki.  One weekend we made a spontaneous visit to Steve Manning Custom Leather works in Rahotu.  Steve is responsible for the leather work on iconic films made in Aotearoa such as Lord of the Rings and Last Samurai.  He showed us around his workshop and has agreed to make a satchel for Rory to carry his every day bits and pieces.  Nana Honnor celebrated her 78^th birthday and Sean and Rory joined her for lunch.