July 31, 2014. I remember it like it was………365 days ago.

 

 

I had only crossed the border nine days earlier. Kelowna, to me, was a resort-town piñata filled with colorful lakes, mountains, and wineries. Sunshine and blue skies for everyone. Elaine and I were still learning the relationship basics – she liked Colgate toothpaste and I preferred Crest. Uh oh, she trended toward Twizzlers and I was red, white, and blue about Red Vines. Isn’t marriage about compromise?!

 

 

 

 

My beautiful and generous wife had secured the marriage license in advance. A few days before nuptials time, we had mutually agreed (see, learning already!) on a semi-secluded beach location at Bertram Creek Park to exchange vows. Sandy beaches and shade-bearing trees were the winning setting. The views, on a toasty summer day, were spectacular.

 

By total chance and serendipity, my long-time friends Steve + Gina Vine from La Quinta, CA were touring British Columbia that week. Those two, along with Elaine’s best friend Mary Kjorven, stood up for us. They were also our only guests. The ceremony was short and sweet. I choked a little. Afterwards, the five of us went to lunch at Manteo Resort Waterfront Hotel. Then the honeymoon at Predator Ridge. We did it!

 

 

 

On July 31, 2015, Elaine and I returned to the scene of our serene outdoor chapel. One year later on our one-year anniversary. Alert social media. Nothing had really changed, other than the fact that we had 52 weeks of marital bliss and couple-hood to draw upon.

 

 

Armed with a picnic basket and blanket, we settled under the trees in the exact spot where we “ringed” each other. No guests (except for a few hungry wasps and ants). We dug into our chicken-and-mango wraps about 11:25 AM to salute the start of last year’s ceremony.  A few boats, canoeists, and swimmers peppered the water. It was perfect for reminiscing. We done did good.

 

 

 

 

Year Two, you’re on the clock.