Bridal Chorus
Opening Words
Micah
Here we are, two kids from Oklahoma, who have traveled over sixty thousand miles together to arrive in this place; Colorful Colorado. After 28 years of friendship and love, we've decided to begin a new chapter of our lives and it starts on this beautiful morning in Paradise Divide. Now when we've talked about this location in recent days, I've often referred to it as Paradise Basin or Yule Pass because I felt like the word "divide" might not fit our reason for being here; to come together and unite our lives. But since I've thought more about it, I've concluded that it does reflect this moment. Like this divide separates the Slate River Valley from the Rock Creek Valley, today marks the point in our lives when we pass from our individual selves and become one. We're taking a step together and crossing over into a new life. So before we do that, I suggest that we take a moment to pray silently and reflect on our past.
silence
Song
Micah
Now, I'd like to play a song that you may have never heard before, and it's not a literal representation of love or our story. But you know we don't have "a song". I feel like we have several. And today this one speaks to me, so here it goes.
Vows
Krista
Micah, there are so many things that make you the one I want by my side. I love your wit, your playfulness, and even your spiciness.
You are quick to forgive, slow to anger, intentional and thoughtful. You are stong-willed, open-minded, kind and considerate.
You allow me to be myself. You allow me to think for myself and make my own decisions. You make me feel capable. At times you step in and take the lead when I need it and at times you step back and let me lead.
You take care of me in so many ways -- whether it's the hug you give me when I am stressed or upset or taking in and caring for Vito.
You are my best friend, my other half. You were made for me. You are the man I need in this life, and there's no one else I would rather be with on this journey.
There will be surprises and uncertainties, but I know we will make it through.
And so I promise. I promise to try; when things are good and when things are tough. I promise to take care of you and protect you. I promise to find the good and the joy. I promise to keep talking -- (one of my favorite things about our relationship).
And I take you. I take you as my husband and my partner in life.
Micah
Krista Gayle Hamm, my best friend, my safe haven, my person. I never knew if I would have a wife. But it’s you. It’s always been you. From the moment we met, you’ve been my guiding light, whether I realized it or not. Our relationship is truly one of a kind; no two people in the world share a connection like ours. It has taken two-thirds of our lives to reach this point, but this is only the beginning. We were just kids when this started, and I have the same childlike hope and excitement for our future as I did then. Together, we will rise and become the best versions of ourselves. So today, amidst the wonder of God’s creation, I, Micah, take you, Krista, as my wife, promising to listen, to be patient and loyal, and to love, honor and cherish you forever to all the ends of the Earth.
Rings
Micah
These rings are unique just like our relationship. While they’re simply tokens of our commitments to one another, they represent our eternal and unbreakable love. When we’re wearing them, they serve as a reminder of our fidelity and loyalty.
Declaration
Micah
By the power of our love and the laws of Colorado, we declare ourselves married. Let's kiss!