As teenagers, we began our married life abruptly. Our wedding day was thrown together by two shocked mothers trying to help us "do the right thing". Planning a dream wedding was the last thing on their minds. There were no invitations or flower arrangements, no rehearsal dinner and no honeymoon. Just a simple ceremony with our immediate family and a few close friends. A quick exchange of vows, some cake, punch and done. I don't even remember anyone asking my opinion of anything other than that hideous dress and laughable hat I chose to wear.
This last June, we decided to celebrate our thirty year anniversary by renewing our vows. This time it would be all of our own chosing. Our love of the tropics meant it had to be a barefoot affair complete with ocean and beach. And so our search began. Where should we begin the next chapter of our lives? Hawaii? Jamaica? Grand Cayman? Or maybe Aruba? Finally, we both agreed on the Bahamas.
Nassau did not disappoint. The island was clean, safe, friendly and beautiful. We spent the week exploring the local straw markets near Cable Beach, visiting Paradise Island and Exuma as well as riding the local bus to and from town. We lazed on the beach, snorkled in the crystal clear turquoise waters and noshed on deep fried conch fritters to our hearts content. It was lovely. Never had I felt so relaxed.
Our vow renewal took place mid week, on the beach, under a flower laiden gazebo and was performed by a local Bahamian Baptist minister. His job was made eaiser by the fact that we each wrote our own vows. I wore a long white sundress and Buddy wore a white linen shirt and white linen pants. We were barefoot. Seeing my amazing husband standing there waiting for me, as I walked down the sandy path to Pachelbel's Canon in D, brought tears to my eyes. I have loved that man since I was sixteen years old.
Though most of our married life has been filled with adversity and heartache, those trials have only served to bring us closer together. However, this one day could not have been more perfect.
No comments:
Post a Comment