We made fun of our friends' advice from dinner on Thursday, but they really did have one idea that we liked. We were asking them for recommendations on the gift registry issue, since (as I've written before) we're not 22 years old without a bath towel or coaster set between us. Nora said, "What I really want is for people to do things that reflect who they are. Someone who knits should knit something, and someone who's a fine weaver should give us something they've woven, and a painter should do a painting. Those are the things we'll treasure, because they really represent who that person is."
And our friends looked at each other, and said, "Yes, and if you don't have any discernible talent at anything, you need to go out now and take a course in something. No stick figures or clumpy clay ashtrays... learn how to make something nice!"
Anyway, we really do hope to see things from you that reflect your personality, or that reflect your relationship with us. And I have to add that it's enormously awkward even talking about what we want other people to give us--our relationship isn't predicated on material exchange, and won't be judged that way either. If someone arrives bearing nothing but themselves and their love for us, it will be a blessing.
And from Nora: Yes. What we value deeply is the friendship, support and love you have shown us. I continue to be amazed that Neoma and Ben are flying in from California, that a passle (How DO you spell that?) of friends are traveling from NYC and that Herb's brothers are coming from Michigan and Florida. Joanna and Bill are trying to change their reservations for a trip to France. Ellis and Joanna have staved off their world travels to Korea and Dubai and Russia to be with us. Our Boston friends have scheduled work commitments in Chile so that they can be in Vermont in June... AND our Vermont friends will hold us close. The gift we care most about is that you will be there to laugh and lift a toast to the future together.
Gifts? You are our gifts.
Passel (n): a large number or amount
ReplyDelete1. the reporters had a whole passel of questions for the new basketball coach
2. the young couple had a passel of babies in the span of a few years
alteration of parcel; first known use 1835
Since our "talents" include:
ReplyDeletepreaching, electrical work, shamanic healing, sacred space, yoga (a newly acquired asset through teacher training) and an affinity for creating delicious and nurturing cuisine, what is it you'd like best?
If you have NO ideas, we will think of something perfect anyway!
Love,
Tiffany & Richard