The Isles of Shoals

One of our homework assignments for Leadership New Hampshire was to complete certain only-in-New-Hampshire activities that would get us familiar with the state on an activity level. I'll post pictures from the Sunapee Craftsman's Fair soon. Today we spent a lovely day with our friends Judy and Zeke as we hopped on board a boat to visit the Isles of Shoals. They're a series of nine islands--five in Maine, four in New Hampshire--that form something of an archipelago. The islands are rich in history. The day was beautiful.

You can catch the slideshow by clicking here.

Wedding Recap

So, we're back exactly one week from out trip to Fernie and our marriage ceremony on July 29. As promised, here is a little more information and a slide show of the events of the day.

Here's what Lee said to me:

Mel, we’ve bristled at the idea that our lives together are more legitimate being able to wed. The more we talk about legal marriage, the more complicated it’s become.

Actually it’s very simple.

Today, is to say I love you, again. And have you know I mean it,
Without reservation.

Being with you continues to challenge me and help me grow. It requires that I be my best self and bring my best game.

When we made our commitment in 1994, I vowed to be open to you—to share myself and my life with you.

It’s humbling to discover that this is a life’s work. And it’s exciting, too! So I recommit now.

I promise to be your lover and your friend. To go where you go and to invite you along on my adventures. …and my wonder.

The ring I wear is a symbol of my love and my commitment.

Here's what I said to Lee:

Lee, 14 years ago this month I made a commitment to you in front of our families and friends that I would "live openly and honestly, to fight oppression in all of its forms, and to be there for you and 
with you as our relationship grew."

Today, we renew that commitment, not only in front of our friends, but here in a place that has brought such wonder and beauty to our lives we renew our commitment symbolically and legally before everyone in Canada and the United States. This private moment becomes a public act.

As I have struggled to make sense of an act that follows 18 years of unwavering commitment to each other and 14 years of a public ceremony to commemorate that commitment, I take our ceremony today as a wonderful occasion to remind you of my love for you, my vow to be there for you always, and my promise to be with you as our relationship still grows after all this time.

It was a really lovely day and a wonderful opportunity to reaffirm what we have known for many years: Our love for each other is deep and abiding.