5 November 2001

Subject: The "Happy Birthday" Party

Dear Ones,

 

At my age, one would prefer not to be celebrating a birthday as often as we do. In fact, over the past few years, we haven't made much of the day when that event rolled around. We kept things rather low key and, usually, just Leavon and I went out someplace for dinner. No party, no presents... just a quite evening together.

 

This year, however, things were a bit different in our family. Our only son, Christian, got married earlier this year and now lives within two hours of us with his new wife, Melanie, and her three year-old daughter, Madison. That is where the difference comes in. With a three year-old around, things were bound to change.... and change they did. The usual quite evening turned into a fun-filled "Happy Birthday" party at our house last Saturday night.... orchestrated, of course, by one little Miss Madison.

 

First, was the presentation of a cake Melanie and Madison baked and decorated for me. Then, came the placement and lighting of candles to adorn said cake. Next, it was time for Madison to help me blow out the candles. (She didn't even take time to make a wish.) Then Madison announced, "Alright, now everybody sing Happy Birthday!!" After a rousing rendition of the traditional song, Madison turned to me and said, "I will help you unwrap your present." When it became a little too difficult for her to get the wrappings off the Stephen Ambrose book they bought for me, Madison was ready to light the candles and blow them out again.

 

I think you get the picture of how things transpired at my birthday party with Madison in charge.... a definite change over the past few years. All I can say is that this birthday was one of my best ever.... and why shouldn't it be. After all, it's not everyday that you are surrounded by a loving family, get to help blow out the candles on your birthday cake, get to finish unwrapping your present, get to eat all the cake you want and get lots of hugs and kisses from a beautiful young lady sitting on your lap.

 

May you have lots of Happy Birthdays yourself.

 

Don

   

 

 

Little Miss Madison