BIRTHDAY PARTIES

Is one ever too old for a good old fashioned birthday party?
My youngest, attaining the grand old age of 30 last week declared that he did not have his fair share of tea parties when he was younger! So yesterday we put that right with good old fashioned tea, sandwiches (egg and turkey) sausages on sticks, sausage rolls, pineapple and cheese on sticks, iced gems, crisps, cake, and jelly and ice cream. It was great - nearly all the family together with his nephews and nieces. There was fizzy pop, and a gesture to the adults a little something stronger.
It was so much fun sitting around the table, chatting, playing games with the grandchildren and just being in each other's company. Then as it was turning dark, down to the park for a walk to go on the swings and roundabouts and climbing frames, when, I think, everyone forgot their age.
Only when we could no longer see did we head for home and a cuppa before getting back on the road.

I believe in parties - always have done because they are so important for bonding and keeping in touch. Oh yes, some are tedious - standing round with chardonnay and nibbles making aimless chatter can be pure hell, but sitting round the table, making conversation, laughing, joking, including all ages gives a foretaste of heaven - the company of friends old and new and family old and young. And the Blessed Lord is truly present when we are together.