Countdown to Gold

I love a good celebration but have never been comfortable with the traditional receptions for weddings and anniversaries. That is probably why my family often does things differently. You say strange, I say different. 

When we celebrated our 30^th wedding anniversary, the kids had a dinner for us and a cake with our picture on it. After dinner we were surprised to find ourselves the audience to a lip-sync performance of  "Take a Chance on Me" by Abba.

(Abba was part of the soundtrack of their childhood because they were a favorite of ours. Ask me how many times we saw “Mama Mia” at the theater!)

The two boys and two girls were dressed very 70’s and had it all choreographed. I was thrilled and didn’t even notice that the singers were all facing to one side until halfway through the song when all four turned. Both girls had painted on moustaches and styled their hair so from that direction that were boys. Both boys had shaved beards, painted on makeup and from that direction were girls. I can safely say that people don’t really “die laughing” because that night would have been my final one if laugher could kill. I regret that there is no video or photo of that event. But the reruns in my mind are awesome.

Our 40^th anniversary came as I finished a year of cancer treatment. For Labor Day we headed to Ole Moon retreat where we have celebrated so many special events. Martin and I renewed vows and we were grateful to look ahead after a challenging year. Another performance was presented, but instead of one song, they chose a musical stage show beginning with “I Write the Songs,” finishing with “Can’t Smile Without You” and including "Copa Cabana" and “Mandy.” Do you see the pattern? All Barry Manilow.

They sang and danced in groups and performed nine songs. That time there was a video and even t-shirts!

(My kids know all the songs from Barry Manilow’s Greatest Hits compliments of Columbia House Record Club that I joined just long enough to get my favorite cassette tapes for only 12¢ each.)

Our 49^th anniversary was this year – August 12, 2021, and we decided we will spend much of the coming 12 months celebrating “Countdown to Gold.” This extravaganza will include traveling with kids, partying  with grandkids, anticipating a record-breaking musical performance by our family, and embracing the 50^th year of marriage without a formal reception but with lots of joy.

Nine years ago at Ole Moon, I read these words from Randy Travis’ song as a reflection of how loved I  have been.

Forever and Ever, Amen

 

"Time plays strange tricks on the body,

Makes a young girl's dark hair turn gray.

Honey, I don't care,

I ain't in love with your hair.

If it all fell out,

I'd love you anyway."

It did.

And he does.

Let the celebrations begin.

 

PS - Sorry kids, this year may take a serious bite out of your inheritance.