Speechless. She was just speechless.

What’s the easiest way to get the crowd back up for the final set at a wedding reception (at least in New England)?  We rely on our old friend Neil Diamond, and his “Sweet Caroline” symphony.  Last Saturday was no exception, and as we neared the last chorus I did what I frequently do: went to the bride and groom to cajole them into singing with me.  It makes for great pictures, especially if they’re horrified by the idea.
“Ladies and Gentlemen,” I shouted, “everyone gather around for our big finale. Let’s get Richard and Patricia to sing it for us!”
Patricia leaned in to me and whispered, “I can’t sing.”
“Sure you can,” I crooned (into the mic.)   Really, all you have to do is yell ‘doo, doo, doo, or dah, dah dah,’ or any old nonsense, really.  Can we get someone with a camera over here?”
She looked at me again and mouthed, “I CAN’T SING.”
“I think Pat might need some help here!”  Let’s get everyone in the room singing along, too! DC, kick it in!”
Pat grabbed me by the shoulder and whispered, “I can’t sing because I LOST MY VOICE.  Aren’t you wondering why I’m whispering in a room full of people?”