July means celebrating Independence Day for multitudes in the US. But for FJ and Carole, July promises Griffitts’ family celebrations. Sixteen days, scattered throughout the year, exist for us to make merry. However, one-quarter of these happen in July.
Our whole family likes to get together for birthdays and anniversaries. We visit one or another’s house—or even camp. We’ve had remarkable, yet simple, celebrations through the years. The most important thing to us is to recognize the celebrant, enjoy being with each other, and help one and all have fun.
Does your family have special days to recognize each other? Do your friends celebrate together?
Celebrations don’t have to be complicated or intricate. Ours aren’t.
The Griffitts’ family celebrations in July
While getting to know each other, FJ and I soon discovered we shared the same birthday month: July. Of course, we had no choice in our birthdays. FJ’s birthday is the 23rd, and mine is the 15th.
But the fact our anniversary is also in July was due to the Air Force. We were engaged before FJ was on assignment in Guam. Of course, FJ wanted the soonest leave possible after his return, so we could marry. He received the second leave, which happened to be July 16, 1966. Thus, the Griffitts family now had three July events.
The fourth occasion is Tom’s anniversary. Tom studied in Thailand for his last year of college. While there, he became engaged to Pairum. Obtaining a fiancé’s visa is difficult. You never know how long it will take, and you only have a certain number of days to wed before the visa expires. Guess what? July turned out to be the best month for their wedding. Surprisingly, Tom decided my birthday was a good day to marry! He reasoned he would never forget my birthday. I’m not sure that worked! However, Tom and Pairum are celebrating thirty years this month.
FJ enjoyed one memorable birthday when our family was all together. The grandkids led him on a treasure hunt, which ended with him finding a big-screen TV! An enjoyable barbecue followed.
My favorite birthday was 1967, after our first year. I sewed a fancy dress, had a special haircut, and went out with FJ for dinner and a movie.
Naturally, our standout anniversary was the 50th. We had a party at a friend’s event venue, an outdoor, old-fashioned area. We continued the celebration all month, camping with Bill’s family at Yellowstone National Park and with Tom’s family in Oregon.
FJ and I enjoyed “hiking” to this viewpoint while camping at Yellowstone National Park.
Summing up
So, now you know July is the month for the Griffitts’ family celebrations. I hope you have enjoyed getting to know us better.
Can you share special occasions you and your family or friends celebrate?
You can see Chapter 1 pictures here. Keep an eye out for more chapters soon.
Find checklists and ideas for family parties. They are more involved than ours were, but helpful, nonetheless.
