A Birthday Celebration!

Neither Barbara nor I can remember the last time we spent this much time together.  And it has been wonderful!  Our conversations have been lively, interesting and informative, as always.  We've learned from each other, supported each other and even questioned each other when we needed to.  Both laughter and tears joined our talks and it was grand!  I'm very proud of her and the life she has created for herself and her loved ones.  I tried to capture the essence of her telling about Houston's birth.  As usual, she was animated and captivating in her recounting that day.

The party began a little after 4 with the arrival of Trey's family.  The weather was threatening, but that didn't slow us down.  Delicious food, drinks, more laughter and conversation reflected the celebratory mood of the day.  The elder Houston kidded me about my long hair and growing a pony tail, mentioning that he had considered doing something similar at one time. 

Only one game of corn hole was played before the rain gently moved in.  It was Trey and Barbara versus Dave and Laura.  I'm not sure who won, but after the match some good natured hugs were shared. 

Dave and Barbara

Finally it was time for cake and candles, with young Houston doing the honors.  This year he requested an angel food cake with chocolate syrup and home-made vanilla ice cream.  The kid sure knows how to party!

The opening of gifts soon followed, with a fly rod from his mom and dad topping the list of favorites.  Next week his paternal grandparents, Houston and Linda, are taking him to DC for a visit to the newer air museum at Dulles airport.  That should be a very fine time and a lifelong memory for the younger Houston.  Who, by the way, I now call Ivey some of the time.  It's my new nickname for him, coming from IV of course, since he's the fourth Houston Mae Crowder.  I started trying to think of a nick for him ever since he changed mine to Pappy. We have fun with these!

I tell all who will listen that Barbara is the healthiest person I know, inside and out.  Part of the reason for that is her diet.  She makes the prettiest, most delicious salads I've ever seen, so I took a picture of one.  Mmm.   Makes me hungry again just looking at it! 

Trey was a wonderful chef, host and bartender, as always.  I happened to be around when he and Barbara shared this moment.  It looks like he adores her.  And I think he does. 

I'm gonna miss these folks when I leave on Tuesday, but the memories of this time together will stay with me forever.  Love you all!