Today was magical—my 70th birthday and 47th wedding anniversary, two milestones intertwining in the most beautiful way. My husband, always creative, outdid himself this year.
For weeks, I noticed him sneaking off to his workshop, claiming to be “tinkering.” I didn’t think much of it—he’s always had little projects. But today, during our family celebration, he stood before me with a look I hadn’t seen since he proposed and presented a large wrapped box. Inside was a wedding dress—hand-crocheted by him. Every detail, every loop, was crafted with love.
“I wanted to give you something that showed how much these years mean to me,” he said, his eyes filled with pride. Tears filled mine as I hugged him. The dress wasn’t just beautiful—it was a symbol of our shared love and devotion.
The surprises continued with a vow renewal in the garden, surrounded by our children and grandchildren. As I slipped into the dress, it felt like stepping into the past, enhanced by the years we’d shared. Hand in hand, we recited our vows, now even more meaningful.
But then, Marcia, my brother’s wife, scoffed. “A crochet wedding dress at 70? Shouldn’t you wear something more dignified?”
Her words stung, but my son quickly defended us. “This dress isn’t just a dress. It’s a symbol of love, patience, and dedication. It represents everything my parents have built together.”
His support, along with the love of my children and grandchildren, reminded me that love matters more than judgment. Later, as I sat with my husband, watching the sunset, I realized the dress—like our marriage—was uniquely ours. It didn’t matter what anyone else thought.
