Ripples and Big Lakes

On the shores of Lake Superior, sitting on a small stump of drift wood and crystal clear water lapping the edges of the rocks along the shore. This is where today had started, we were months from away from the “Big Island” but it was on those shores that I had decided to ask Amy to marry me.  The ring had been purchased soon after I got back.  The ring was snuggled away at home while we hiked the Porkies, the Escarpment trail, and swam in Lake of the Clouds.  Amy didn’t know it yet.  I thought of telling Mark on the Porkies hike but knew Amy should be the first to hear and have the option to say no.  I told Mark only of how great she was and nothing of my plan. 

Today was a family trip to Boot Lake.  All the kids piled in and we loaded up swim towels and backpacks.  The kids swam in the unseasonably warm fall day.  As they toweled themselves off on an otherwise empty beach, my palms grew sweaty and I made my promises to Amy, my vows of Marriage and the kids grew quiet as they realized what was happening. 

Amy,
I promise to see our differences as strengths and to be supportive of your aspirations as we continue to grow closer for all the years to come.
I promise to be your lover and your friend, to communicate honestly and fearlessly.
I promise to be your companion in adventure and accomplice in mischief.
I promise to be caring and understanding, to console you in disappointment and celebrate you in success.
I promise above all else to always honor you and make you feel loved.
Amy, I feel privileged and honored to make these promises to you; This is my vow to you, my equal, as I ask you to take me as your partner for life.

Fortunately, Amy said “Yes,” right there at the Boot Lake picnic table on a late September day that was warm enough to swim.

Then it was time to hike. Amy and I held hands on the trail and the kids excitedly hiked and made future plans with American Girl dolls packed into their backpacks.