Friendship by Kate Levy

My toast is sentimental - I want to propose a toast to friendship, love and family.

This is because both Anna and Ben's version of friendship is to treat us all like family.

So we don't speak for months, hate each other and never call.

No, this room is full of the family we have all chosen. I asked Anna and Ben how many of their family were coming and they answered - all of them.

And yes, we are all here. Each one of us cherished, respected and loved in the only way both Ben and Anna can - generously, unconditionally and without judgement.

For myself - Anna and Ben have both walked by my side helping me through some pretty rocky terrain recently. Pointing out the funny bits and making me see the funny side when I had perhaps forgotten how to laugh.

With all of us they seem to instinctively know when to include us in the group summonings and knowing the exact moment to generously give of their time one to one. Never forced, and never superficial.

To have their love and friendship is wonderful. To be a part of this wonderful day today, is yet another gift Anna and Ben have given each and every one of us, and I know you will all join me when I raise my glass to say thank you Anna and Ben for being our friends - thank you for letting us all here today be a part of your love and thank you for bringing together this quirky, funny, sexy, and crazy family that makes our lives more fun and more complete.

To friendship, love and family.