Monday, April 13, 2009
We have just had Easter with all of my family at Mt Hyland Wilderness Retreat. It is a beautiful venue and miles from anywhere so the quietness is almost deafening. My mum and dad, four sisters, children, all of my sisters and childrens' husbands and partners and their children came. 21 in total on the Saturday for the ceremony. We always have a lot of fun when we get together and this was no exception. Four days together. We played games - outside ball games, indoor theatre sports, board games and painting.

I had bought everyone a small canvas each and if they wanted to, they could do a painting ... I was amazed that everyone did one and they were stunning. We had yoga every morning at 7am and most of them braved the crisp morning to come down to the yoga studio. It was fabulous having both my parents who are 70+ come down and join in.

Similar to our last celebration we had the men's and women's circle prior to the ceremony itself and it was heart opening. When we came back together we shared a 'court dance' that we had learned earlier that morning. The classical Pachabel's Canon led the way and each women had a male dance partner and it was simple greeting, followed by a few traditional turns and steps and then onto the next partner. I had been hesitant to include this as I thought my sisters more conservative husband/partner may not feel very comfortable and I did not wish to alienate them ... it was already a bit far from your usual wedding ceremony. However, everyone really enjoyed it and when we sat down and moved to the next stage of the ceremony everyone was really ready for what was to come.

My dad shared first what he appreciated about my mum and us four girls. He was emotional and could hardly speak. This set the tone for the rest of the sharing. I was deeply touched by my son's appreciation of his family. Roger spoke eloquently on his love for my family. It was very different from the one we had in February yet just as rich and memorable. Here's to the public expression of love, respect and appreciation.

PS. We had a great Easter Egg hunt on the Sunday, and yes, Chahaya and Charlie are the champions!