Happy Anniversary, Carl and Nicole!

October 2, 2007 was a beautiful, cool Tuesday morning.

I met Carl and Nicole at the Lyons Lake trail head (in Desolation Wilderness). We checked our gear -- lunch, enough water, wedding ceremony binder, Native American wedding vase -- and then began our adventure. A wedding hike, to Lyons Lake!

It was a great and invigorating hike. We stopped periodically, not only to catch our breath, but also to enjoy the beautiful scenery. Two hours later, after reaching our destination, we changed into our wedding clothes, set up the video camera, took a deep breath (!!), and had a wedding ceremony!

Nicole had purchased a hand-made, one-of-a-kind Native American Wedding Vase (which Carl carefully carried up in his backpack), and we incorporated a water ritual in the ceremony.

The vase has two spouts, one from which Nicole drank, and one from which Carl drank during the ceremony -- in that order. It is symbolic of them becoming one in marriage, and represents the love and strength of their union. The vase is kept secure for the duration of the marriage, and later passed along to another couple with the wish that their marriage will be strong as well.

To quote from the ceremony: "The vase is unique, just as your love for each other is unlike any other. May it always be a symbol of your love and all that you hope for in the strong marriage you will build together. May you always do your best to keep this vase safe, secure and unbroken, just as you will cherish and safeguard your loving relationship with each other."

Because we were the only three present, Carl made a video of the ceremony to share with their guests during the reception to be held a few days later. (It was a unique experience for me, talking to the camera rather than an audience!)

After changing back into our hiking clothes and enjoying a quiet, reflective lunch, we hiked back down to our cars. It was a beautiful day; an experience I will never forget!

Happy 1st Anniversary, Carl and Nicole!

Jeri