For the past decade, I’ve spent the 4th of July at the house of one of my good guy friends from high school. His parents live on the water and it’s a wonderful way to unwind, relax, and then watch as my friend and his father run back and forth setting fireworks off of their dock. It’s a great time and I look forward to connecting with the same group of people year after year.
However, this year was special because the JA and I got ‘our’ cake. As individuals in our group of friends started to marry, my friend’s parents began providing cakes during their 4th of July celebration to mark the occasion. As ‘your’ cake gets placed on the dessert table, an announcement is made so that all who are in attendance can celebrate with you. Being that we got married back in September, this year was our turn. (Truth: I’ve been looking forward to this since last year’s celebration, as I thought we got cake after becoming engaged. Cue disappointment.)
It’s wonderful to have traditions like this, especially to mark important milestones in our lives. I love that this friend’s parents get involved and are excited enough for us to incorporate our marriage into their holiday party.
Another thing that I love about it is the words of wisdom that follow the announcement. Before we left, I was given this bit of advice:
“If, on any given day, both you and him each put 50% into your marriage, you’ll at most have 100%. But if one of you is putting in 100%, even if the other has nothing to give that day, you’ll always have more than enough.”
We left feeling happy, full, and wholly loved. It was like leaving our reception all over again!
What are some of your favorite holiday traditions?
