For A Special Anniversary: Renew Your Vows

Why are vow renewals so uncommon? I really don't understand.
Isn't it natural to go back to the place where, as a young
couple, you first committed your lives to each other?

In a world where marriages are falling apart every day, we
should celebrate the marriages that are making it through the
tough times. A vow renewal is a great way to tell your husband
how much you cherish him, and that you are more committed to
him today than the day of your wedding. Whether it is your 5th
anniversary or your 50th, a vow renewal is an amazing way to
recommit and reconnect with your spouse.

Planning a vow renewal is simple. All you need is your husband,
someone to proceed over the ceremony, and lots of love.

Choose a Location: Do you have a special place in mind? You can
plan your renewal at the church where you were married, in your
own backyard, at a park or another special location. Or have
the ceremony where you had your first kiss, first dance, or
where you were engaged. Be creative.

Inviting Participants: Do you want a small, intimate renewal,
or the large wedding you never had?

The Ceremony: Design your own ceremony. Have a religious
ceremony or a simple exchange of vows. Do you want to recreate
your wedding by reading the same readings and playing the same
music you had the day of your wedding or choose new verses and
songs that mean more to you now?

Write your Vows: If you're going through the effort to have a
vow renewal, why not write your own vows? They'll mean so much
more to you. Design them to include specific instances in your
life.

* "I loved you even when you backed my truck into the mailbox."
* "Back when I first saw you in college..."
* "I knew I'd love you forever when ..."

Involve your Children: If you have children, involve them in
the ceremony. Older kids can read the readings. Younger
children can hold flowers. You can also recite vows to your
children.

* "I promise to love you, cherish you, and kiss you
good-night..."
* "I am thankful every day to have you in my life."

Why not stand tall and announce to everyone in your life that
you still love and still cherish your husband? Tell the world
that your two feet are firmly planted and you are committed to
the wonderful man you married. What more treasured gift can you
give your children than to have them participate in your vow
renewal and for them to witness your vows to each other? What's
stopping you? Don't wait for your 50th anniversary. Don't say
"maybe next year". It doesn't need to be fancy or expensive.
Just do it.



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