June 26, 1999 dawned clear and warm, and stayed that way all day. We couldn't have asked for a more perfect day for a wedding. It was cool, but not uncomfortable and the sun was up and bright by the time we'd all gathered. All who attended agreed that it was a near-perfect spot, too.
We had a little glitch at the beginning. Brian had called the forester who care takes for the park to arrange for it to be open half an hour early for us. The regular forester was on vacation, but the substitute said there'd be no problem with it, since we were a small party and would likely be gone by 8:15, only about 15 minutes after the official opening of the park for the day. Brian had left a couple messages for the full time ranger to call him so he could re-confirm, but he never did.
Well, at 7:30, there were 3 cars waiting and the gate was still closed, so one of our enterprising friends got out and undid the chain. Then the ranger came running and was upset about it. He and Brian had a few words and everyone ended up driving into the parking area. The bride arrived about 10 minutes after the incident and knew nothing of it till after the ceremony.
Apparently the ranger thought we were going to be a huge group or something, because he was rather shocked when so few people showed up and when we all left so early, and he came to apologize and all was well. |
