November 2008 Archives

Ok, so the trolley as a mode of wedding transportation is a bit trendy right now. I thought the idea was charming, but originally assumed it was out of our budget. And then I priced limos large enough to hold 12 people (the two of us plus our wedding party). The prices were high, and SUV limos that were very much not our style were often the only option.

So we looked into the trolley. It turned out to be very economical-- half of what a limo (or two) would be, and the local trolley company had a great reputation.

What I didn't realize was how fun the trolley would be. The 25-minute ride from the ceremony to the reception was our time to hang out with our wedding party (our best friends) with out anything else to do. My maid of honor/sister stocked the trolley with snacks and beverages, we toasted, and the cars around us (to whom we were easily visible since the trolley had open sides) celebrated with honking and cheering. The ride was a blast.

The next few photos are by our friend and groomsman Rich:

"That's the true genius of America: that America can change. Our union can be perfected. What we've already achieved gives us hope for what we can and must achieve tomorrow." -President-elect Barack Obama, November 4, 2008

I don't live in California, but I will be watching this ballot issue closely. I am lucky enough to live in a state in which gay marriage is legal. I work with many people who are married to same sex partners, and I assure you, their marriages are not a threat to mine. In fact, their marriages are an inspiration to me-- commitment to love in the face of discrimination and fear is admirable.

I have many dear friends for whom marriage is not legal in the states in which they live. Everyone should have the opportunity to experience the joy that we experienced on our wedding day. Everyone should be able to publicly celebrate their love and commitment with their family and friends if they choose. There's no reason that Patrick and I should benefit from our legal commitment while others, equally in love and committed for life, should be excluded from those benefits. It just doesn't make sense.

I live in a very accepting area of a very accepting state. Around here, it is the norm to see and interact with and know couples of all backgrounds and all varieties. Love is love.  No one else's love is a threat to mine, or something to be afraid of. Love is love, people are people.

If you are in California, vote no on prop 8. To borrow from Meg, "Stand up for human rights, for equal rights, and stand up for all that is good and pure and true about marriage."

Love is love.