Michael proposed the afternoon of Thanksgiving Day as we were preparing to leave for dinner at the home of cousins Tim and Wendy Haldeman. We've been discussing marriage for a long time but we're happy to report that the moment Michael chose for the proposal took Elisabeth completely by surprise. Many tears followed. Michael then called Beth--she and Bob were sharing Thanksgiving with Bob's son Steve and his family in Ukiah. Gallantry lives on (and being Scottish, was there ever any doubt?), as Michael formally asked Beth for Elisabeth's hand. More tears followed. Then we put on our kilts and headed over to the Haldeman's.
It is our Thanksgiving tradition to bring a bottle of single malt Scotch whisky to cousin Tim--usually Macallan. This year, we visited the Macallan distillery in Craigellachie, Scotland and acquired a bottle of cask strength. After dinner, Michael presented the bottle to Tim and poured the first dram into a pewter quaich (also acquired in Scotland). A quaich is a small shallow bowl with two handles that is, according to Scottish tradition, used to toast love and friendship. It's also used when adversaries meet, as when two people drink from the same quaich they can be sure it's not poisoned. Like most Scottish legends, a double-edged sword! After sharring the first sip with Tim, Michael announced our engagement and offered the quaich to Elisabeth. Both the announcement and the whisky gave everyone a redolent glow as well as quite a kick.
Many thanks to all our family and friends for their enthusiastic warm wishes, even those you couldn't resist a "it's about time!" (Uncle Doug Richie. Scott Ward.) Plans are currently underway so watch this space for details. Hoo Ha!
Monday, November 30, 2009
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