On Monday, my mother Eleanor Batchelder got married to her longtime partner Fumiko Ohno. Being a pragmatic couple, they went into it with protestions of, “it’s just a formality, don’t make a fuss!” But on the day, they were as happy and bubbly as any newly married couple, their 25-year history together notwithstanding.

They live in Toronto because Fumiko is not a US citizen, but came to Massachusetts to get married, because of an issue with my mother’s divorce that I don’t understand. I was really proud that my home state gave them the legal recognition they deserve.

Of course, we made a cake, our first with tiers:

The supports are big wrapped stick lollipops, sawn to the proper lengths. The M&M’s were custom-bought so we could include violet in the rainbow. On top are two Lego minifig avatars, in white wedding dresses.

After the ceremony, we had a small party for them, and my twin sister happened to be close enough to attend with her family. Two of my mom’s local friends joined us, so it was a great celebratory event.

Here are the two brides arriving, with me throwing rice (from a box) on them:

Later, Eleanor and Fumiko cut the cake:

It was only later I realized I now have (another) step-mother! I guess that doesn’t matter as much when you’re 50 as it did when you’re 10.

My mom is a big influence on me, of course. She was a software engineer over 40 years ago, and my first exposure to computers was through her books, before I ever touched an actual computer. Her nerdiness runs through me to my kids. In the ‘70s she took a career detour to open Womanbooks, a prominent feminist bookstore. Her independent spirit has helped me to find my own path, and to encourage those around me to do the same.

It was really great to see my Mom so happy about the “formality” of getting married. Official recognition of her relationship is important, and now she’s got it.

Congratulations, Mom and Fumiko!