Wednesday 25 July 2012 — This is more than 12 years old. Be careful.
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!
Comments
Love, Helen
Love, Lorraine
Best wishes,
Niki
I stumbled upon your blog after meeting you at the boston python user group tonight. I just want to say congratulations to your mother and her wife.
Judy
Friends with Eleanor back in Cambridge in 1960 or so. Was guest at wedding way back then. Happy to see you Eleanor with wonderful life partner and loving children as well. . What a treat. Things sometimes work out! Hope all well.
What a wonderful story! Thanks for sharing it and congratulations to your mom and her wife!
My congratulations to you and to your mother and her partner.
I’m a Spanish trans woman and I’m proud to be trans; and I also feel proud of your mother and her partner.
My best wishes to all of you and your family.
Kisses from Spain. Alba
Add a comment: