Where has the time gone? It is hard to believe that my father turned 70 years old this month. In honor of this amazing milestone, family and friends gathered last weekend to celebrate. Here is a snapshot of the party, skillfully orchestrated by my mother.
My sister baked, and I decorated, 4 cakes for the party.
Each cake was a different flavor, including......
chocolate, vanilla, banana and carrot.
The party was outside, in my parent's back yard.
The weather was perfect: warm, with no humidity (yeah!)
The beautiful flower arrangements were courtesy of my dad's dear friend, Sam, who owns The Windsor Florist in Manhattan.
The amazing food (including BBQ rib eye steak, ribs, and shrimp) was catered by Jimmy Smiley of Greenport.
Here is the birthday boy surrounded by friends.
And still more friends
Blowing out candles, with the help of his (4 year old) grandson Dillon.
In addition to our cakes, people generously brought desserts. My hands down favorite? These amazing cookies made by 10 year old Brittany. She made 70 sets, each one unique.
Pretty special, if you ask me.
In lieu of birthday gifts, my father asked people to donate money to John's Place, a homeless shelter at St Agnes Parish. Both he and my mother have volunteered at this program for many years. Over $1200 was donated in his name, which I know made him extremely happy. This money will go a long way in helping the less fortunate on the East End of Long Island.