"The Chosen Ones"

Just wanted to clarify a few things:

No intended offense was meant when Greg and Fumiko-san kept their wedding ceremony to immediate family. Traditional Shinto wedding ceremonies include only immediate family. Click the link if you don't believe me. Part of the decision is following cultural protocal and not wanting to commit any fox paws (Norv's term) and the other, expense (theirs and yours!).

So, what the hell are Norv, Rindah and Jeff doing in the family picture? Even Norv was surprised he made the cut, often telling people that he's part of the 'Chosen Six'. Greg did qualify the invitation that he's invited as long as he was serious about me. Always a first for things, and by this, I'm referring to Greg being even mildly protective as a brother. My cousin Jeff is pretty much immediate family (and a real cousin, not a fake cousin) -- the holidays aren't the same when he and Rindah aren't around. As for Rindah, she's always good to have around because she's an easy target for jokes and a good sport about it. Kidding, kind of.

Before the procession to the temple, Fumiko-san's assistant did let a few of her friends participate in the procession and attend the ceremony, even though they weren't really dressed for the occassion. Very sweet of her to do this favor. I really did wish that the Solis', Bern, Danny, Eric and their families were there at that point, but we didn't know the assistant's kindness and discretion until we were ready to start.