The 10th of each month is always a good day for me, being payday. This month was extra special though- it was Chris and Sally’s wedding day.
I’ve only known Chris for just over a year but in that time he’s become a good mate. He’s an intelligent and open-minded guy with a wicked sense of humour. He loves his surfing and doesn’t mind the odd beverage. His spontaneity after a few drinks has already become legendary amongst Tokushima’s foreign population (and any poor unsuspecting local that may have been unfortunate enough to cross his path at such times).
The wild beast has been tamed (to some degree) by his fair maiden, Sally. As you might expect from her name, Sally is not Japanese, though she has lived here quite a long time. She is originally from Peru and therefore speaks Spanish as well as Japanese. Thanks to Chris’ travel experience in South America, he and Sally could overcome the usual language barrier problems by conversing in Spanish. (They can also speak quite openly without fear of recrimination so long as there are no other Spanish speakers present!)
Sally and Chris’ relationship soon blossomed after they met. It soon became clear to all of us that there was some special chemistry between the two of them. When Chris broke the news to me that Sally had become pregnant it was clear that he was much more happy than worried about the sudden development. With Sally’s Latin/Catholic heritage though there was only one path to take – marriage.
So on December 10th at a small church here in Tokushima, Chris and Sally tied the knot. It was a relatively simple affair. The ceremony was conducted in Japanese with some additional comments in English and a touch of Spanish. Naturally the bride and groom’s families were present, along with an international mix of friends.
Following the ceremony, the reception was held at ‘ Tango’, a sizeable bar in the downtown area. After toasting the newly-weds with champagne, guests were able to enjoy dinner and an open bar. Most dishes were western variety, placed on the bar so that we could help ourselves to as much as we wished. Everybody ate, drank and got merry!
It felt kind of nostalgic to me to be at the wedding with Yoko. (To think it’s been seven years since we exchanged vows!) Reni also enjoyed himself I think. Besides Sally and Chris he seemed to be the main attraction for many guests. The highlight of the night for him was when he found a playmate – the flower girl. After they began playing together we didn’t see him at our table for ages!
Congratulations Sally and Chris. You guys make an awesome couple. We look forward to the birth of your child (followed shortly after by our second). Thanks also to both your families for being so warm and kind and sharing such a special day with us.
