Tradition!

The fireworks are done exploding, the burgers have been devoured, and the parades have finished marching. All we have left now are memories. So the question is, what memories have you created for yourself and your family?

I remember going to a 4th of July Parade while visiting my paternal grandmother in the small town of Friendship, Wisconsin in the '70s. I was pretty young (ahem, you know, since I'm still 29 and all), but I still remember the thrill of the candy-throwing.  So much so that in my heart, I still feel like going to a parade would be an essential part of perfectly celebrating Independence Day.  Unfortunately, living in Florida's heat and humidity keeps me from wanting to set foot outside in order to have that perfect holiday.  But I still yearn for the parade experience. 

Of course it is important to remember and incorporate the "why" of celebrating any holiday or event.  But after that, traditions are the key to creating memories.  When I was a child, my family didn't celebrate a lot of common holidays due to religious beliefs.  Now as an adult with my own family, I find myself having to create traditions for my children.  And I even find myself looking forward to them.  For example, my favorite season is autumn, and by oh, April or so, I'm already dreaming of pumpkins and fall festivals and cooler weather (and yes, maybe pumpkin spice lattes a little too much, admittedly).

It doesn't matter if your traditions are the same as most other people's or different.  And it doesn't even matter if your tradition doesn't take place on a holiday or special day.  We even have a tradition in our family of always getting a Slurpee after swim lessons.  It only matters that you decide what's important to you and your family and figure out the best way to spend time together, enjoy life, and share experiences. 

And for crying out loud, don't forget about the parades!