I took a break from mud season to travel to New Orleans for the wedding of my eldest son, Asher, to the lovely Savannah, amongst family and friends. Savannah’s large Southern family warmly welcomed us to their clan. I bonded with my new in-laws, Johnny and Mary, who joined me in approving of this match if not quite forgiving Asher for convincing Savannah to abandon warm and welcoming New Orleans for Maine winters; although, they did allow that Acadia was pretty special. I look forward to years ahead with Mary and Johnny as we share a love of our children, music and political tastes, and grandchild hopes. Johnny and Mary watched over and helped Asher and Savannah when they lived and worked in New Orleans without helicopter hovering, and I promised them both I would do the same in Maine

The venue was a lovely and spacious old mansion with guest cabins, a small pool, and ample space for the rehearsal dinner, wedding, reception, and next-day brunch, followed by a later barbecue. Large pocket and French doors and huge double-hung windows showed off New Orleans's architectural history, and a series of wondrous gastronomical treats, including beignets, pastries, grits, crepes, and much more, showcased the foodie proclivities of New Orleans and the fine gourmet tastes of my new daughter-in-law and my son, who has surpassed his father in the kitchen and beyond. 

The wedding featured a touching tribute to my late wife and Asher’s mother, Ernie, blessed be her memory. Written by Asher, it touched me deeply, contributing to the happy and cathartic weeping that helped me throughout the entire nuptial journey and events. Ernie’s sister, Marianna; her daughter, Ivy; and granddaughters, Madeleine, Emilia, and Catherine traveled from Salt Lake City to witness their nephew and cousin’s nuptials, and that added special meaning (and more happy weeping) for me. Ivy was the flower girl for our wedding 45 years ago in South Berwick. Her youngest daughter, Cat, about the same age as her mother had been, was the flower girl for Asher and Savannah, ably aided by her mother and sister in the rehearsal and actual event.

My younger son, Avram, acted as Best Man and delivered a warm and wonderful toast celebrating sibling friendship and familial bonds. He recalled a remarkable ascent of and pilgrimage to Katahdin organized by his late Uncle Fred (Ernie and Marianna’s older brother) a decade ago, which solidified his and Asher’s adult relationship. Traversing the Knife’s Edge can have that effect. I also had an opportunity for extensive conversation and bonding with Avram’s partner, Veronica, and more happy weeping over the good fortune my sons have had in convincing strong, smart, and special women to share their lives. I slipped Avram Ernie’s engagement ring, which my mother had given to me almost fifty years ago.

Johnny and Mary took me to the NOLA airport, and I had a long trip home through New York, arriving in Bangor at midnight. I got a motel room and drove home in the morning, enjoying a bright new day.

Best Man Avram Preps Groom Asher. Photo courtesy Jon Reisman.

Ivy, Cat, and Emilia Practice Flower girl. Photo courtesy Jon Reisman.

Jon, Veronica, Avram. Photo courtesy Jon Reisman.

Savannah and Ernie's sister, Marianna. Photo courtesy Jon Reisman.