fifteen years ago...

We said our vows in a small Lutheran church just outside of Minneapolis. It was a mild but gray day, typical February. The wedding was far from elaborate; handmade bridesmaids dresses and simple flower arrangements. A friend from college played flute solos before the service. I don't remember that much; it all went so quickly.

Next was the reception at an old worn-out Legion hall nearby. But we had given in to hiring a great caterer, and the menu was outstanding. Also, we had hired a musical duo we had listened to many times and liked, keyboards and guitar. They played slow music throughout dinner, but then after the tables cleared we broke into an impromptu wedding dance. We only had the hall until nine, no real dance planned, but we just went with the flow and had some memorable dances. Then we departed for our decorated Ford Escort wagon, and headed to downtown Minneapolis for our wedding night on the 13th floor overlooking downtown. Still fully clad in wedding attire, we went down to the bar and danced, celebrated. On your wedding night, people give a lot of free drinks!

The next day it was a long drive from Minneapolis up to the Canadian border, at a lodge we will never forget. Although we only were able to stay two nights for our honeymoon, that place will always stay with us. We cross country skiied, and enjoyed some fabulous meals in the dining room.

Fifteen years. Wow. Of course it hasn't been perfect, but we are now on the course of our dreams, and we have managed to endure many hardships...together. All things considered, I like being married, and The Hermit is probably the only man in the world who could put up with me for so long :) !

We celebrated tonight with a meal of grilled ocean scallops, crab stuffed mushroom caps, roasted asparagus, and boiled new potatoes. Too much of a feast for me!