We all look forward to July 4th, mostly for the BBQ and beer. And while a three-day holiday weekend should be a time for relaxation, the people who are hosting parties or busy with other life distractions may not get the chance to step back and appreciate the chance to celebrate freedom. I tend to get caught up in the responsibility of it all.

This Independence Day weekend we attended a vow renewal ceremony for friends of ours who put their own twist on the meaning of July 4th. This couple is a foodie couple like us and chose to celebrate five years of marriage at Pizzeria Stella. It was a match made in heaven.

Their setup was simple with no frills. They completed a short and personal reciting of promises to each other. Smiles and laughter served as their soundtrack. Then the food came. Their favorite Italian dishes included meatballs soaked in marinara, broccoli rabe with shaved ricotta salata, grilled octopus and homemade whipped ricotta with rosemary flatbread. The pizzas were served next. All of our favorites were brought out in droves: the white pie with black truffle; the classic margherita with fresh basil and buffala mozz; and the red sauce pie with spicy sopressata.

Watching our friends re-declare their commitment for each other became my week's reaffirmation of what life is all about. Here in the U.S.A., we are very lucky to be able to choose who we love, honor that love whenever we want, and gather our friends and family to take part in the joy of it all. And when you're sharing good food with good company, its that much sweeter.