18 years ago today I married my best friend. It was on a Friday, and happened to fall on a long week-end. The day was 30 degrees and full of bright sunshine, with a touch of humidity.

We began the day together in a salon, getting our hair done by our shared stylist. Afterwards we walked across the street and enjoyed a relaxing lunch in a tea house, surrounded in 18^th century charm. We couldn’t stop smiling.

Then it was off to the chapel, in Kitchener’s City Hall. Upon arrival, we were asked to pay for the wedding services. Hubby forgot to withdraw cash, so off to the nearest ATM he went, leaving me at the chapel. He returned, and as we were heading inside the chapel with the officiant, hubby realized he forgot the rings in the car. So, again off he went leaving me at the chapel. But, we still couldn’t stop smiling.

After the ceremony, we walked outside to take pictures in front of a beautiful fountain. Out of nowhere, a young lady came running towards us shrieking ‘Oh my GAWD! Oh my GAWD! You two just got MARRIED!’ After reaching us with a big smile, she breathlessly asked if she could take our picture. A stranger, bursting with kindness, forever a special part of our wedding day.

We then drove to a nearby photographer, whose studio was in an old century house near Victoria Park. His wife greeted us with a smile and offered us each a glass of wine, which we enjoyed in the shade on their beautiful porch. After our photos were taken, and a purchase of beautiful art painted by his wife, we headed off for a week-end honeymoon at The Little Inn of Bayfield.

Along the way, we stopped at a small village of Rostock, and took a picture beside the city sign to share with Ralph’s brother who lived in Rostock, Germany. Who knew we would one day end up living 1.5 hours away from the Rostock we took the photo for.

Each anniversary, I think back on how magical our wedding day was. And I cherish all the memories we have made together since. 18 years later, we are still the best of friends and can’t stop smiling.

Two souls…united with love.