Party
MyJeff picked me up after work on Saturday and we drove out to Elk River (northwest outer ring suburb) to the home of one of my nephews and his family. . .To the big party celebrating my eldest sister's 50th wedding anniversary. We had a great time--the best evening out in a very long time.
All four of my sister's offspring and their families were present. I served as the only representative of our side of the family, but her husband's sister and brother and some of their descendants (including a 5 month old adorable baby girl) attended. Even a couple of my sister's best friends from college (back in the '60s) were there.
Interesting and entertaining conversations abounded. The catered food was excellent. A varied selection of soda and beer provided choices for everyone. And they played music.
Several of the aforementioned variety of family members play instruments including guitar, fiddle, mandolin, bouzouki, penny whistle, harp, and dumbek. From my brother-in-law's younger brother (probably around 70) to a couple of grand nephews in the 6-year-old range, many of the guests sat in on the music circle, some playing for an hour or two, some playing for a song or two. Most of the music came from their paternal Celtic heritage. A niece observed me sitting there, slapping my thighs and stamping my feet to the music and brought me the dumbek. As a person who is not blessed with the ability to MAKE music--no matter how much I love it--I indulged myself only with a little soft tapping and finger-brushing until another grand nephew who CAN make music sat next to me and accepted the dumbek. I thoroughly enjoyed sitting in the midst of the musicians, surrounded by the collaborative creation of joy and sound.
MyJeff and I had a terrific time. I only wish I had photos to post. Perhaps one of my relatives will send me a picture or two. If so, I'll put them up here.
All four of my sister's offspring and their families were present. I served as the only representative of our side of the family, but her husband's sister and brother and some of their descendants (including a 5 month old adorable baby girl) attended. Even a couple of my sister's best friends from college (back in the '60s) were there.
Interesting and entertaining conversations abounded. The catered food was excellent. A varied selection of soda and beer provided choices for everyone. And they played music.
Several of the aforementioned variety of family members play instruments including guitar, fiddle, mandolin, bouzouki, penny whistle, harp, and dumbek. From my brother-in-law's younger brother (probably around 70) to a couple of grand nephews in the 6-year-old range, many of the guests sat in on the music circle, some playing for an hour or two, some playing for a song or two. Most of the music came from their paternal Celtic heritage. A niece observed me sitting there, slapping my thighs and stamping my feet to the music and brought me the dumbek. As a person who is not blessed with the ability to MAKE music--no matter how much I love it--I indulged myself only with a little soft tapping and finger-brushing until another grand nephew who CAN make music sat next to me and accepted the dumbek. I thoroughly enjoyed sitting in the midst of the musicians, surrounded by the collaborative creation of joy and sound.
MyJeff and I had a terrific time. I only wish I had photos to post. Perhaps one of my relatives will send me a picture or two. If so, I'll put them up here.