Someone just lost a turn.

The saying goes around Glenwood Springs, CO. that you don't lose your girlfriend you just lose your turn. There are many reasons for this saying, one being that the guy to girl ratio here is about 8 to 1; but there is one special lady that has been permanently removed from that list. About 6:30 pm mst, on 12/5/2009, Jim Hardcastle, and Mindi Harman tied the knot, and Jim cemented his spot as forever first in line for Mindi's carnival ride.

For those of you that don't know Jim and Mindi, you are truly missing out. They're two individuals who define what it means to be an amazing person, and I couldn't be happier for the adventurous/dorky couple. In my time getting to know these two, I have come to find them as giving, friendly, open-minded, free spirited individuals that would do almost anything asked of them, including giving away their old cell phone because your brand new phone decided to shatter on impact from a three foot fall. (The phone is still working smashingly Jim and I thank you again.) I can't think of another couple that compliments each other so well, and I know that your love and adventures will continue to flourish.

For those of you who weren't able to attend the ceremony, (and I know if they could, they would have had the entire county attend,) it was a beautiful and incredibly creative event. Not only was it a green wedding; with every utensil, platter, and prop either reusable, recyclable, or bio-degradable (hippies), it was unlike any wedding I have ever attended. The tables were decorated with memories, and trail-mix. The food was delicious, and even featured dead animal, which was very kind for the vegetarian combo. There was no tuxedoed groom, or over priced bride's dress that will never be worn again. There was no champagne fountain, or fondue lazy river. The mountain of returnable gifts did not pile to the ceiling, and the guests were not dressed in their most uncomfortable Sunday wear. Even though the bride's brother dawned his finest sports jacket, it was merely covering a cut off t-shirt with a skull. What their wedding lacked in over-priced decadence and cliche tradition, it made up for in originality, and welcoming spirit.

Their slide show gave us a great look into their pasts, and at their horrible fashion sense; though Jim did pull off the knee high stripped socks like a champ. The beautiful locations they've shared together, and wonderful people that surrounded them in the photos gave us a taste of the joyous way that they live their lives. Mindi's Dad shared some very moving words...not because of its content, but because it was structured around the Black Eyed Pea's song "Boom Boom Boom". The best part of the night came when Jim and Mindi exchanged their vows. The words they shared about each other, and their relationship, highlighted just why it is they work so well, and barely left a dry eye in the house. They did not need a justice of the peace to declare that they belong to each other for eternity, rather they took it upon themselves to certify their love.

I had an opportunity to fill out a prayer flag for the couple, an honor that every member had a chance to participate in. Creativity was once again key, and you could fill the flag with a variety of glittered glue-ables, and colorful writing from various calligraphy pens. Instead of asking for gifts and possessions, they asked for prayers and well wishes, that they can take with them for the rest of their lives. Their wedding really spoke about who they are as people. Simple, and kind; welcoming and practical; friendly and fun. Even their pinata held humorous gifts and ended the night with laughter and originality. Although I'm pretty sure I saw a child scoop up a condom, and Cuervo Gold chocolate from the battered paper mache heart, even the prizes from the ancient Mexican tradition held the humor and free-minded spirit that makes these two so unique. I thank them for the opportunity to share with them such a special moment in their lives, and I wish them all the luck and love in their new adventures together as ball and chain.