November 02, 2005
First Month-a-versary
One month ago (OK, a month and a day...) James and I were married. It was a very small ceremony, and I know many people would have liked to attend. Since that wasn't possible, I hearby present the text of the ceremony and some beautiful photos. I hope you enjoy them!
James' brother, Rick, acted as our officiant.
RICK: Welcome everyone. Karen & James are so happy that you could join them on this special day as they join their hearts and their lives in marriage.
Karen and James, our wish for you today is that your marriage will bring you much happiness and joy. Happiness in marriage is not something that just happens. A good marriage must be created. The creation of marriage is:
…in never being too old to hold hands.
It is remembering to say "I love you" at least once a day.
It is speaking words of appreciation and demonstrating gratitude.
It is encouraging flexibility, patience, and understanding.
It is finding a place for humor and playfulness.
It is appreciating creativity and artistry in all aspects of life.
It is knowing how to work together and compromise.
It is giving each other an atmosphere in which each can grow.
It is searching for the good and the beautiful in all things.
It is establishing a relationship in which independence is equal, and dependence is mutual.
It is giving and receiving love with your whole heart.
It is two people standing together facing life.
At this time, Karen and James will exchange vows.
JAMES: The Power of 3
3 things - I love about you…
- your creativity and imagination
- your strength and independence
- your kind heart and beautiful spirit
3 things - I love about us…
- our playfulness, the silly and childlike moments that I treasure every day
- always being there for each other to comfort and support in times of need
- that we teach each other what we know and learn new things together
3 promises – I promise to…
- always be there when you need me
- listen to you, as an attentive and compassionate partner
- devote my whole heart to the life we are creating together
The power of 3 – you, me, and (down the road) our baby will make 3
I love you!
KAREN: I first fell in love with the creative and talented soul I met in an art museum, the man with whom I shared so many "me, too" moments that it became more than a little scary. As time passed and I came to know the many facets of your soul, I found that I loved you even more – the goofy side that lets you be silly with the first graders, and with me; the wit who matches my every verbal parry; the talented musician who has so much music itching to get out into the world. But most of all, I love my Jamie, who lays beside me and shares with me his heart and his soul, the man who reminds me every day about the woman I am and the woman I can be, the man who makes me feel safe and loved and who brings color and joy to all of my days. James, you are words to me, and water and life. For that and for so much more, I promise to honor and to cherish all the parts of you I've come to love so well, and those parts I have yet to discover. I promise to be there for you in your times of need, as I know you will be there for me. And I promise to never walk over the top of you, but to always walk beside you and hold your hand. I love you.
RICK: James, do you take Karen for your lawfully wedded wife?
James: I do.
RICK: Karen, do you take James for your lawfully wedded husband?
KAREN: I do
RICK: The rings, please.
(hand ring to James)
James: Let this ring encircle your finger as my love will forever encircle you.
(RICK hand ring to KAREN)
KAREN: Let this ring encircle your finger as my love will forever encircle you.
RICK: Karen, James, I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss.
(SMOOCHING!!)
