Looking Back: November 2015

The month of November began as it always does, with Granddad's birthday.

He celebrated 96 with balloons and company,

and complete disbelief that he was that old.

And he enjoyed the company and the celebration,

but the candy really got his attention!

Then there was the traditional Guy Fawkes bonfire,

with spectacular sparks flying high over our heads.

In fact, November is a month of traditional celebrations, isn't it?

We celebrated the Beaujolais Nouveau with a wine party,

a taste of the brash new wine and a glass of good old wine.

It's good to have traditions.

HoosierKitty added a new one to Thanksgiving: cranberry cordial.

It was a lovely addition to the usual feast,

which we enjoyed all the more for the Indy Duo who shared it with us.

There was even more storytelling, with PC at the IU Art Museum.

and snow, actual cold wet snow, made a very brief appearance.

But mostly November was bright and clear,

so busy and so full of parties and events and work

that I made little record of it beyond a few photos.

Oh March, you mixed-up month

Oh yes, March, you came in like a lion,

with more snow than we cared to see.

And by your end there were flowers (even though your weather wasn't lamb-gentle).

You brought birthdays

and birthday celebrations

and welcome company.

You saw Granddad getting better

and the poor lame horse getting worse.

You brought a long anticipated treat

that brought us together

for good times.

And the good times were rolling along...

until our own Jersey boy left the table 

and the good times stopped rolling for a while.

Yup.

March, you are just a mixed-up month.

The 95th

It is not everyday that someone turns 95.

Granddad could hardly believe it himself.

He spent the week before his birthday asking:

 "Now, how old will I be on my birthday?"

"How old do you think you are?" I'd ask.

He always answered, "16!"

The event was marked in style - starting with a crown for the King of the Day.

Mimi brought a square balloon to tie on the wheelchair.

Granddad was amused and pleased to have so many Skype calls.

He really felt as if you all were right with him.

He enjoyed hugs,

and birthday cake,

and company,

and presents.

It was a fine Birthday Eve party!

On the actual Birthday Day, there was a candlelit dinner with soft music, more presents, deeply appreciated company -- and a tasty tender STEAK.  

Now the crown is put away for the next birthday,

but Granddad has a new hat to wear all year.

Thanks to everyone who made his 95th a great occasion!

Company

 "There are a lot of people to keep track of here," sighs the Boston Gentleman.

 "Like the Uncle and Cousin who came this week.

Talk about confusing - they both had the same name!"

"I stayed close when they were here,

watching the Cousin one

 and watching the Uncle one.

But they didn't take me along to see the Granddad one,

so I didn't get to watch them there.

Said they had fun anyway."