Continuing Heritage And Traditions…
Mary Elizabeth Frye once wrote a beautiful poem entitled “Fallen Limb”. She eloquently described what she felt our loved ones who had died were saying to those of us who remain alive here on Earth. The opening line is “A limb has fallen from the family tree.” The poem goes on to express that our departed loved ones hope that we will remember the best times, the laughter, the song, the good life that they have lived. We’re asked to continue their heritage and traditions.
My son Dan and his fiancée Victoria will officially be Mr. and Mrs. Pollock by the time this January 2026 issue of Movin’ Out is printed. They were married on December 12, 2025, which was deadline week. I had to hustle to try and get as much work done ahead of time as possible and I have broken a record in the 36 years of writing this column to have it done so soon.
Up here at the Homestead, we have two apple trees planted in memory of my Father-In-Law Strick and Mother-In-Law Audrey. Their ashes are buried with the roots of the trees. They have begun to produce apples providing the deer with a tasty treat before we can harvest them. I have a willow tree planted for my Mom June, and her ashes are also buried there. Limbs may have fallen but we can plant new trees to honor and remember our loved ones. The trees have grown so much in the 3 years that we planted them. I can stand under my Mom’s willow tree and I do that often, feeling the soft leaves against my face brings me peace and comfort.
I wanted our loved ones, including Dan’s beloved beagle, Gunny and his best friend since preschool, Eric to be a part of his and Victoria’s wedding day. I found a photo pin on Etsy and had one made for him with photos of his 3 Grandparents, Eric, and Gunny. I gave Dan the pin moments before the start of the wedding when we were alone in an elevator. I was of course a tearful hot mess and he had to fasten the pin in the inside of his jacket by himself. When, his Dad and I walked down the aisle together, those loved ones joined us on that walk and were a part of this wonderful day. I know that they were sharing in his happiness and joy as he begins his new life with his bride Victoria. Together, they will honor the heritage and traditions of both sides of their families, whilst creating their own memories and traditions.
As Father of the Groom, my husband gave a toast at the reception and thus is a portion of it:
“It is a tradition in Scotland to toast friendship and love with a Quaich. This small pewter cup has two handles symbolizing love and partnership. As you both hold on to this cup, reflect on how your love for each other makes you stronger. Your marriage today, is a partnership, which prepares you for the challenges, and triumphs life will bring you.
I’d like to offer a traditional Scottish toast to the newlyweds:
Strike hands with me, the glasses brim.
The dew is on the heather.
For love is good and life is long,
And two are best together.
Bless the union of these two.
Eager for marriage, eager for love.
May they begin life together,
Live that life together
And come to the end together.”
Photos by Shawna and Alec Nebel of Nebel Images