31st August, 2024

Rose of Sharon

Your flower bloomed just as we were leaving for your daughter’s wedding. What a wonderful omen.

I feel I have to write to you personally, though I know you were there in spirit with us all. What a beautiful occasion.

Anastasia looked splendid, as she entered the church surrounded by her jewel-hued bridesmaids and maid of honour, (you would have loved the blasts of colour as they tripped down the aisle in front of her), her family and her friends. The music, arranged by Benedict I think, was magnificent.

The dogs, all five of them, perhaps surprisingly, did not make it to the church. But they made up for it elsewhere. What an impression they made – not least one of them, who decided to make a lasting imprint of his little gnashers on her forearm. She was totally unfazed, of course and managed to incorporate the ensuing sling into her outfit.

And her husband. Oh Sharon, you would adore him. Handsome, funny, clever, and possibly rich. Most of his family came from halfway round the world to see him happily attached. They were all absolutely charming. And charmed.

We were so delighted and privileged to be invited. So many of your old friends were there, all saying how much you would have enjoyed the proceedings. It was lovely to catch up with so many people. Even one of my son’s schoolfriends was there. Such a coincidence.

Fr Gildas gave the most serious but uplifting wedding homily I have ever heard. It was his first ever wedding apparently, and he put his whole heart into it. Actually, everyone did.

The flowers were gorgeous, the food was excellent, the company delightful, the dancing fun. You would have enjoyed the weekend immensely! We were all talking about your fabulous parties and plays – you would have made a great operetta out of this occasion.

Cheers and every happiness to Anastasia and Josh!