Beautiful bronze is the traditional 8 year anniversary gift. Being a year
after the traditional 7th wedding anniversary gift of copper, bronze emphasises
the fact that the marriage has gone into a period of extreme strength and
durability. A seventh year of marriage is often a true test of the long term stability of a relationship. The dreaded 7 year itch can strike, and many marriages fail at that point. Scientists and mystics alike have wondred why this may be. Those who are superstitious believe that it could be something to do with the strange symbolism of the number seven. Scientists argue that it may be that some humans hark back to an older genetic imperative and that after around 7 years, any children may be reasonably able to fend for themselves, at which time ancient man would move on to another partner. Studies have also found a lesser-known but just as scary 4 year itch where relationships
may similarly hit shaky ground. But if you've reached your 8th anniversary,
you can happily say that you've passed the risks of the itchy times, and
ahead of you is the steadfastness of a strong relationship which has withstood
the test of time and will continue with its reliability to withstand whatever
may try to breach it Even in these modern days, it's a relief to
know that most marriages still do last for life. In the USA, 57%
of marriages truly are "Till death us do part". If you've reached
your eighth wedding anniversary you're on a truly good heading to be part of that
happy 57%. Rugged yet attractive, the 8 year anniversary gift of bronze is perfect
to illustrate this movement into the ongoing strong and dependable times
of a long term marriage. It is actually only the second metal that you
would have encountered so far in the traditional anniversary gift schedule,
copper having been the first of the metals in the previous year. The increased strength of another joyful year of marriage is empahasised
in the fact that bronze, the traditional 8 year anniversary gift,
is a stronger substance than the 7th year gift of copper. It is also
more durable, representing the ongoing continuity of a happy relationship,
and harder than copper, indicating the unbreachable bond that time has
forged. Bronze is a metal which will elegantly age in parallel with a happily
married couple. This ageing process of bronze is a form of oxidization and is known as patina.
Over the years this will produce an attractive natural effect which is
highly appreciated by bronze collectors. Also known as verdigris,
the green coloured patina of bronze is actually copper carbonate (as copper
is part of bronze's composition), and is bronze's natural protection against
further corrosion. Often people are tempted to try to shine away
the patina, and of course, this may be your own preference, but bronze
collectors much prefer the natural look of a time-aged piece. A nice
genuine patina can help to identify a genuine aged piece from a newer bronze.
A simple light dusting off with a dry cotton cloth is the best way to keep
your bronzes clean and retain their natural look. With this characteristic effect of patina, your bronze anniversay gifts
can effectively be thought of as organic and almost living sculptures.
And as we all age over time, it's nice to know that ageing is appreciated,
not just in our own increased wisdom and knowledge, but also in the valued
beauty of the attractive rustic patinas on our special bronzes. |
 Martin 2008 Phosphor Bronze String Sampler 3-Pack Light StandardThree kinds of Martin strings: the SP 4100, a coated version of the SP 4100, and the FX740. Includes free 175th Anniversary Martin bumper sticker. String guages: .012–.054.
$17.99
Save on recommended retail price of $51.69
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 A Valentine for Uncle JimOn February 14th, 1969, Second Lieutenant James Patrick Witt, of the United States maritime Corps, became one of the 58,000 American casualties of the Vietnam War. The anniversary of his death on Valentine's Day, even after twenty-five years, continues to be very painful for the soldier's survivors. Although born after his Uncle Jim's death, Patrick Cicerchi has grown up in awe of his war-hero Uncle, and has felt a strong tie to him. When Patrick is given a school assignment to write an essay about someone who has inspired his life, and when the project is due on February 14th. Patrick knows that he must write about Uncle Jim. A Valentine for Uncle Jim, is the true story of 2LT Jim Witt, recipient of the Silver Star, the Bronze Star, and the Purple Heart Medals. It contains historical data presented inside the framework of a novel. It is a book with universal appeal, written for both young adults and for those who lived through the Vietnam War years. Contained in this book is a teaching guide, which lends itself to classroom instructional application with middle school and high school students. Proceeds from the sale of this book will be donated by the author, to the D.O.V.E. Fund (Development of Vietnam Endeavors), a non-profit corporation, in loving memory of her childhood friend, Jim Witt.
$12.98
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