Grandaddy Turns 70!

Friends and family came from near and far to help us celebrate Grandaddy's 70th birthday last Saturday. In spite of the heat it was a beautiful afternoon filled with laughter, good food, and lots and lots of good stories.

There was even a little chocolate cake on the dining table to remind Grandaddy that his best birthday present ever arrived on September 29, 1974—me! Well, I did reign as best birthday gift ever until he got a backpack stuffed full of shotgun shells and an ipod loaded with Marine Corps marching tunes.

As always, Patrick, Madeline and Sophie had a wonderful time playing together, being admired and adored, and spending time with precious cousin Eleanor, who was nearly squeezed to death by Sophie's enthusiastic hugs. Patrick was devastated that there were no "prizes" (party bags) at the party, but otherwise had a lovely time.

Grammy and Grandaddy survived a post-party babysitting gig as Donald and I snuck away to Capitol Hill for the evening and left Madeline overnight for the first time. She did well, but squealed with delight when we walked back in the house this afternoon. It's nice to be missed.

Happy Birthday Grandaddy! We had a great time at the party.