Eleven years ago it was for us, our family and our friends. It was a perfect day. A sunny 78 degree day in July. A carefully planned ceremony followed by an afternoon of yummy food, wine, music and tons of laughter. We loved every minute of it and I remember, though my cheeks ached with smiling, I just couldn't stop. I was having the time of my life - my girl and I got married.
Since New York State made marriage between same sex couples legal last summer, we had thought about it. It didn't matter to us that our marriage wasn't "legal". We have considered ourselves as married as anyone else and the idea of going through the motions again seemed a bit anti-climatic and hollow. But then cancer struck and the prospect of a very serious surgery. As the surgery date loomed closer, we got prepared in many ways and the subject of marriage came up again as we sat in a lawyers office discussing how to protect our assets should things go awry.
So tomorrow at 1:00 in the afternoon we will return to our friends' lovely B&B off Park Avenue and renew our vows. It might not be as fun as the first time - maybe not as romantic - but it is still for love. The kind of love that sees the present as it reflects on the past and looks toward the future.....and holds all HOPE for the continuation of our lives together as it prepares the best it can for all possibilities.
Faith, Love and HOPE endure. My girl and I are getting married - and this time it is for real!
April and Sharon...we are elated to read this wonderful news. May the renewal of your vows bring you peace and the knowledge that your commitment to each other is now and forevermore,not only written in your spirits, hearts and minds but also on legal shmegal, NYS certified ,paper marriage certificate! Love, Ray and Barbara
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