Joy exploded like a fireworks encore when we all finally got together to celebrate the marriage of our son Charlie and daughter in-law Tara.
Patience, planning and expert production resulted in this cool juxtaposition of a gorgeous pastoral ceremony and an elegant, hopping dance floor that throbbed with memories and fun.
We were all so grateful for the opportunity to hang with our family, which has expanded in such wonderful ways, and to honor the people who had brought us here.
The bride and her bridesmaids carried bouquets made by her momfrom pages of Tara’s favorite books and decorated with jewels and a brooch from her grandma.
Charlie wore his grandpa’s Super Bowl I ring, his best man Vinnie wore a 1961 NFL Championship lapel pin and cousin Michael wore Packer cufflinks — all in honor of their Grandpa Ron.
We all sang “New York, New York” as has become a tradition during family gatherings to summon the celebratory spirits of Grandpa Vince and Grandma Mary Jane.
Meanwhile, the grandparents who were in attendance had a rip roaring time. Grandpa Jerry danced with Grandma Marion and with his granddaughter, the bride. Grandma Peggy rarely left the dance floor.
It still isn’t easy to host these big family gatherings. Travel logistics and health concerns make everything trickier. So we’re even more grateful to everyone who made the trip.
Congratulations to Tara and Charlie on their long-awaited big day and thanks for hosting such a perfectly planned party!
