Our First...

Wedding present! Woman was very excited about the first box to show up on our doorstep. She waited until Man got home from work to open it. It took 20 minutes to convince Man that it was okay to open it before the Big Day; indeed that it was necessary to open it and enjoy it for its special place as the First Gift!

While Man has always gone above and beyond in gift giving, he does not want anyone to EVER feel obligated to get HIM a present. After all these years, Woman still doesn't understand his logic... maybe he was just too lucky as a kid & got all the presents he ever needed for his entire life. How could that be? Woman does not understand.

So, after convincing Man that it would make Woman so very happy to open it, we did so. And it is SOOO cool! And Woman is having a hard time putting it down. We will definately have to practice to attain the status of "Artisan." But, this tool is a beaut and, let me tell you, it is balanced for the perfect stroke and has enough weight to really mean business. Thanks, Shaleah! We love it!

Things To Do & Items to Bring

Sometimes when you're in a hurry, the details get left out. Woman was so proud to have invitations for the Big Day completed in what must have been record time! And yet, when Man and Woman were discussing how our Guests will entertain themselves before the ceremony, we realized that SWIMSUITS are not on the "Essentials" list. What? And, the invitation doesn't really say much about the gorgeous spot we've chosen on the shore of Lake Crescent. Olympic National Park

Declarations - of a sort

Despite the fact that it took Man & Woman 15 years to get married, they were head over heels within weeks of their first date. It was our college years, when we felt like we'd experienced enough to make grown-up decisions, but young enough to think about the decision before it was made. Woman's Mother, upon hearing Woman's excited chatter over a "new" man, was cautious. Mothers know that youth is impetuous.

Man turned to Woman and declared his love; "I think I might love you." Perhaps Man was experienced enough to realize the folly of youth, or perhaps he had been burned before and was simply being cautious. Woman, scared that it was too soon to be so crazy about someone, responded "I think I might love you, too."

Man and Woman were driving around one night, without a plan. Or perhaps Man had something on his mind. We wound up on river bank. Woman never really knew where we were. We climbed out onto large rip rap and shared the evening.

First Kiss

Let's just say that Man did not try to hide his shock.

My Man is Crafty Too

There is some debate as to how we broke a bathroom sink, but nonetheless, we needed to replace it. It's been broken for months! But, we just hadn't found the right one for the space or for our budget.

Baja fixed that.

Our first night there, I saw this beautiful sink. By eyeball only, I thought it would fit in our tiny space. We lugged it around for two weeks, then as a carry-on on the plane. Mike had the counter cut & planed and the sink installed in time for Opening Day of Fishing! Look at that craftsmanship.

Lovin' it!

Things to Do Around OPI

Why would Man & Woman decide to get married so far away?

Wedding FAQs

Q: Where is the wedding?
A: At Olympic Park Institute (OPI), 111 Barnes Point Road, Port Angeles, WA

Q: What is OPI?
A: OPI is a non-profit educational facility, specializing in outdoor education. Kids typically spend several days exploring & learning about the natural world. There are historic cabins and a lodge built by Rose & Mary, who settled the area at the turn of the Century. OPI rents the entire facility for a few weddings every year as a revenue source. We are thrilled to support their programs!

Q: Where is OPI?

A: OPI is on the west shore of Lake Crescent in Olympic National Park, a half hour drive west of Port Angeles, WA.

Q: Is there enough room for everyone to stay in a cabin?

A: Yes.

Q: Can I bring my dog?
A: Sorry, canine friends will have to sit this one out ~ OPI rules.

Q: Can I pitch a tent?
A: Tent camping is only allowed in Front Country campgrounds, not at OPI. The closest FrontCountry Campground is Fairholm. The cabins are warm & worth every penny!

Q: Should I bring food?
A: The meals listed on your RSVP card will be served at scheduled times. If you are planning a hike, or strenuous activity, you might want to pack a few snacks.

Q: What is the cost of the meals?
A: All meals are hosted by the Bride & Groom.

Q: What if I have kids; will we have to share a room with a partier?
A: Cabins will be pre-assigned and directions will be given upon arrival. We will try our best to accommodate any special requests.

Q: What if I want to "Party Like It's 1999?" Will I have to be quiet around the kids?
A: See previous Answer. Late night revelers will be asked to keep it to the Lakeside Shelter.