70!
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.
Fourth of July Weekend 2011
We had a fun filled Fourth of July on the East End with family and friends. Here are some of the highlights:
A stop at Catapano Dairy Farm to see the animals and to buy some of their amazing goat cheese and fresh eggs.
Here to play with us?
Yes Sir. We are!
4 is the lucky number
A beautiful hen, making her rounds.
Sun light pouring into the kitchen on Saturday morning. (Yes, I sort of have a thing for roosters.)
The tranquil view from my back porch
My (91 year old) Grandmother watering her tomato plants.
Beautiful flowers in the garden
A J Dak Ect: A delightful bric a brac store on Village Lane in Orient. Allen, the owner, is as charming as his store.
Red flowers in honor of the Fourth of July
Oops. I guess this is why Grandma said not to hang on the clothes line.
Why does trouble always find me?
The Oysterponds Historical Society's Heritage Day Celebration -- replete with a country parade.
Watching the kids march brought back memories. I use to march in every Memorial Day Parade. (Don't you just love the little guy on the tricycle?)
The North Fork Chorale singing patriotic songs.
Lots of delicious food, including spare ribs on the BBQ
Mussels steamed in fresh tomatoes, herbs and red wine.
Suckling pig. Our Greek friends Sam and Jimmy are taking it off the spit.
My homemade Tirimisu (and Greek Pastries) as the sun sets. What a great weekend!