Friends, family, food, frivolity and another year older…where both digits change…it was the best of times!

Early this year I started mentioning the birthday and asking what kind of celebration might be in order.  The responses were less than exuberant and extremely non-committal.  One Sunday afternoon I heard a voice from the bedroom proclaiming, “I know what I want to do for my birthday”.  I was thinking Paris or Amsterdam or at the very least New Orleans or maybe San Diego.  No, not at all.  The birthday boy decided he wanted a Patio Party on Edward’s Farm.  He wanted me to state on the invitation that he did want gifts but did not want anyone to buy a gift. He wanted something suitable for placing in one of our gardens which they already owned.  The intention was to create a mean by which our friends would always be on the farm with us.  Additionally, he requested “dirty old man birthday cards”.  I must say our friends did an incredible job of helping him celebrate.

The house was lovely and a good time was had by all. I must say, it was the perfect afternoon and evening for a party.

GATHERING

Gorgonzola and Walnut Torta, Signature Pimento Cheese and Honey-Tomato Bruschetta with Ricotta welcomed the guests.

Friends gathered and love was in the air.

DINNER

Guests were treated to a buffet of some of Brandt’s favorites. Fried chicken tenders, smoked sausage with peppers and cheese, brisket sliders, baked beans, pasta primavera, dressed eggs, mexican corn and arugula salad, herbed roasted potatoes and pickled shrimp.

CAKE & GIFTS

Brandt’s birthday is three days prior to his namesake Brandt’s birthday which shares a birthdate with his best childhood friend, Doug.  Our great niece Olivia assisted with blowing out the candles.

All the “dirty old man” cards were read aloud and passed around.

The gifts were incredibly creative but more than anything they were deeply touching.  As you see they all seem to be very much at home in their “new home”.  Our hearts are full knowing friends from far and near now have a loving presence on this property that is so dear to us.

This is the 19th birthday we’ve celebrated together.  We are blessed to have each other as well as such dear friends and family.  The sweetest man in the world is another year older.  I love you, sweet one and look forward to celebrating many more.