55th Anniversary Bash - The Party

We slept in pretty late on party day (Sunday, February 18). Those who are good at this sort of thing were very efficient in setting up the house for a big party. Others played toys with small children.

While a few invitees couldn't make it due to illness or iffy driving conditions, we ended up with a great turnout. We ate around 1:30p or so; filled two large tables. Good food and conversation all around. I must recognize Barb's cake-baking skills - some kind of raspberry cheesecake plus a chocolate-caramel-pecan wonder.

After eating, more talking. Watched the highly-excellent video from the 50th wedding anniversary (note the rapt attention of the viewers).

I include three photos showing the representation from the three generations present. First photo includes Clarence, Irene, Kathy & Daryl; with honorees in front row plus Mary Lou. Second photo shows children present (Barb, Dolores, Therese, Cecilia, me). Third photo shows grandchildren present: Joe, Kieran, Tom, Nicole, Patrick, Allison, Angie; Clare, Julia, Emily, Margaret, Jenna. I think those photos pick up everyone except Art (but he's in a photo above).

Mark & Sue Bormann stopped by, also Sherry with daughter.

Some of the guests drifted off as evening neared; then the card-players got started. Those who are good at this sort of thing then pulled off dinner for 18 pretty effortlessly (you can see the fine gathering below). The Cullen family needed to leave, but fortunately not until after they played a few songs for us. They played some sort of wistful Irish tune followed immediately by "Turkey in the Straw," which certainly made us think back many years to Mike Bormann (and made me feel kind of wistful myself, actually). They also did a fine rendition of my third-grade recital piece, the "St. Paul Waltz." Which I appreciated hearing.

Then the remnants of the party sat around the kitchen table well into the night talking over many things and finding ourselves hugely entertaining for the most part. This part of the day was quite enjoyable. Spoke to Carol in Nome and had a discussion about the 55th honorees' visit for the Iditarod planned for next month. Dad showed some of his winter gear, but I think Mom may need to borrow a thing or two. More chatting. Among other important topics, we covered the distinctions between Ken G., Kenny G., and Ken E.

End of a fine day - and we weren't even up to the actual anniversary date as yet. Will discuss that next.