It's another hot, sunny day at the farmette. Looks like summer is here at least for the next week.
Yesterday, we took the two and a half hour trek down to the outskirts of St. Thomas to help celebrate brother Dan's (aka Boonie) 70th birthday. Sister Sandy hitched a ride with us in our spanky new hybrid SUV.
It's been a tough one this year for him. He lost Arlene, his wife, in April to a brutal, longstanding (seven-year) bout with cancer.
The two of them had grand adventures - travelling all around the world - Iceland, Europe, Peru - and most of Canada.
His whole blended family - birthed and bonus from Arlene - were there with their kids. Cousins by the dozens running round, bouncing in the bouncy castle, playing ball and climbing on the monkey bars. He and Arlene have a beautiful house and property so there was plenty of room for all.
Dan's actual birthday was on September 11th, coinciding with my late dad's birthday and mom and dad's anniversary. When we were younger, it was fairly nice to have all three celebrations in one day.
Saturday also happened to be Dan's youngest daughter Laura's birthday. She's the one on the left, and she turned 38.
On the right is his eldest son Mitch. And you can just see second son Josh's cap on the left. Nice framing Lois. Sorry.
The two sons took care of much of the organizing and food. Josh has a smoker, and made scrumptious ribs and pulled pork. Mitch brought salads and the birthday cake. Everyone else pitched in with tons of other dishes, and it was a huge feast.
Here's Meghan, Dan's eldest daughter, who was helping her dad with all the presents he received. Of course he said it was completely unnecessary, but was grateful for the gestures.
He's opening the present we gave him - a family photo we got mounted on canvas from one of our Thanksgiving gatherings from 14 years ago.
It was so great to catch up with everyone. We found out that Dan had spent a lovely two weeks with a close friend from WAAAY back who now lives practically on the beach in Prince Edward Island. So glad he took the time for himself.
Also found out that he will be moving on to a new life in a condo and returning to travelling the globe. Good on him. We all wish him the very best. Until next week.
Gratuitous cat photo is a throwback from 12 years ago. The late Nick Charles, looking dashing as usual, with a tiny, tiny Hobbes in the background. They loved each other.
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