Sunday, July 11, 2010

Annual Triple-Birthday Party

July 11th is a very special day in our family. Hubby and I throw a huge party with family & friends, and every single year, for 21 years, we've never had it rain on our outdoor fun...ever. We've had luahs, Key West themes, and more. Michael made the dinner. I always make three desserts so each birthday baby gets his or her favorite. We sing three times as each is presented. I love this tradition.



We celebrate our son's birthday:
...with a homemade 5-layer ice cream cake.


My mother-in-law's birthday:

...with a mocha raspberry layer cake.


My big brother's birthday:

...with a cherry cheesecake.


~my mom~

And, it even was my parents' wedding anniversary day. AND, when my neighbor can come over, it's also her birthday on July 11th! Happy 17th Birthday, Emma!

And I felt a little bit like it was also my birthday when my dear friend, Kathy, brought me lavender. Kath gave me fresh cut, tied with ribbon, that I sniffed all night, and a big pot of growing lavender with the most amazing little scalloped leaves. I'd never seen this kind before.


~my two babies grew up!


As I sat near the end of the party, I watched. At the far end of the table, my two beautiful children were absorbed in their own laughter and private jokes. My Mom and Mom-in-law were giggling and telling stories. My birthday brother was surrounded by piles of cards and used candles and well wishers. Friends and cousins and my sister-in-law, and Michael, were chit chatting and cracking up. I felt such a tidal wave of emotion. Life is so good. For all of the hard, there is so much love.


This year, I feel my age. I'm exhausted and not doing a thing today. Time out! ~Kathy


12 comments:

Createology said...

What a lovely get together with so much to celebrate. How wonderful that you have so much family and that they actually get along and enjoy such a fabulous tradition. Happy resting today...

lori vliegen said...

happy birthday to everyone!!! woo hoo....let them all eat cake!!! i'm so glad that you had good weather, happy laughter, and sweet togetherness! you have such a sweet family, kathy......enjoy your rest!! xox, :))

p.s. LOVE your garlic.....left you a comment there....

thekathrynwheel said...

That looks like a great party :-) Happy birthday to everyone!
Hope you will enjoy your new spray inks and stencils. How can you not?!! You will love them, and you will spray everything in sight!

Kolleen said...

what a wonderful post and beautiful picture you painted of you sitting and soaking up the love you witnessed amongst all of your family.

i love the tradition of each having their own dessert....yumm-eeeee!!

"for all of the hard, there is so much love". beautiful sentiment!

xoxo
k

Lancerika said...

Looks like "a splendid time was guaranteed for all"!
July 11th at 11:11
(well, almost:))

Anonymous said...

Sounds like a wonderful day! Those are the kind of days e all hope for. Love the garlic draing.

beth said...

"for all the hard, there is so much love"......perfectly said and understod!!!

Suziescards.etsy.com said...

Your children are beautiful..they have friendly loving faces!
Thanks for sharing these lovely pictures!

Marthann's Musings said...

Oh this post made me tear up. How very, very sweet. July is like that for my family. My nephew and I on the 5th, another family member on 13, 16,17,19,30th and 31st.
Your children are great looking kids. Best wishes to all.

lisa said...

you sure do make some gorgeous children!

Kathryn Zbrzezny said...

♥Thank you so much everyone! You mean they're not only "faces a mother could love?" heehee
When they were little, they even got along well and played together. I have the silliest pictures of them!♥

Anonymous said...

Kathy, it looks like you put on a beautiful party! I love traditions... what a special one! :)