Today is my parents' fortieth anniversary. They've come a long way - literally, since they got married in Staten Island, NY, and now live in Portland, OR. Four kids and four grandkids later, they're doing great and having fun.
A great Kuffner family tradition got started at their wedding. During the reception, my dad's uncles got together and serenaded my mom with There Is Nothing Like A Dame. My dad and his brothers picked it up when the first of my cousins got married in 1987, and it's been done at every family wedding since (it was a huge hit at my wedding). All of the non-groom men and boys from the family get to sing along now, with a couple of solo parts being reserved for the uncles. They almost had a disaster at my brother's wedding in Missoula, Montana, back in 1996, when no one remembered to bring a copy of the lyrics. Fortunately, I found a "South Pacific" songbook at the Missoula Public Library and had copies made in time. I think they've since appointed an official Keeper of the Lyrics to prevent further near-misses.
Anyway. The anniversary official celebration won't be until November, when Olivia takes her first plane ride and the whole family can be together, but I want to take a moment to salute them. Happy Anniversary, Mom and Dad!
Posted by Charles Kuffner on August 01, 2004 to See, I do have a life! | TrackBackIn a time where the divorce rate in the United States is over 50% and more people are airing their dirty laundry in public than I care to be bothered with, a story like this is just too cool. Congratulations to the Kuffner family for proving that some things can last.
Posted by: William Hughes on August 1, 2004 9:31 AMWhat he said ^^^ Cool! Congrats to your mom and pop, and the whole family!
Posted by: Beldar on August 1, 2004 9:38 AMCongrats, best wishes, and what a charming tradition.
Posted by: Linkmeister on August 1, 2004 2:21 PMDear Charles: This morning Kris called. Eileen answered and we heard her say, "Mom and Dad are tired; it's hard work being married for 40 years"! After we all had a good laugh, we said, it's worth it when you see what the kids have done and all those beautiful grandchildren. In our vows, I remember that phrase, "May you see your children's children...". Thank you all for making it well worth the effort (really no effort at all, we like each other). My you all see your childrens's children, and do what we do, spoil them judiciously.
God luv ya,