It was a cold, rainy, and windy day, the kind that usually sends people retreating indoors, wrapping themselves in blankets, and canceling plans. But not this time. Not for Miles. Not for this milestone. Nearly one hundred invitees showed up, jackets zipped, hoods pulled tight, all determined to celebrate this moment with him. Something was comforting in that, a reminder that even the most uninviting weather cannot dampen the importance of family, connection, and shared joy.
The tables were filled with an abundance of food that seemed to stretch endlessly. There were trays of meats and cheeses, salads, sandwiches, bowls of snacks, and desserts that looked as though they had been made with care and pride. Tom was in his own version of heaven. I watched him with a smile as he indulged in treats he so often avoids in our day-to-day lives. The highlight for him, without question, was the homemade strawberry shortcake prepared by our ex-daughter-in-law, Camille. Alongside that were potato chips and sweet snacks that he enjoyed without hesitation. For me, I stayed simple, picking at the meats and cheeses, content in my own way. It was hard resisting that cake, but I didn’t take a bite.
By the time we made our way back to the hotel close to 5:00 pm, neither of us had any desire for another bite of food. It was one of those rare and satisfying moments when you feel finished, not deprived, not overthinking, just done. We didn’t eat another morsel for the rest of the evening, and it felt perfectly fine.
What made the day truly special, though, was being surrounded by family. Seeing our son Greg again always brings a sense of grounding, and it was lovely to spend time with his girlfriend, Heather, and her daughter, Megan, whose graduation party we’ll attend next Sunday. And then there were our three grandchildren, Maisie, Miles, and Madighan, each one growing into their own lives in ways that make us proud. They sat with us at times, talking easily and sharing pieces of their lives, while also moving in and out of the party’s busy energy.
One of the most fascinating touches of the day was the setup for what they called “dirty sodas.” I had heard of them in passing, but this was my first time seeing such an elaborate display. There were cans of soda lined up on ice, along with flavored syrups and cream, all ready to be mixed and customized. It seemed to be the latest trend among the younger crowd, and they embraced it with enthusiasm. We chose not to try one, content to observe from the sidelines, but it was fun to watch their excitement as they created their own combinations.
For much of the party, Miles and his friends were immersed in lawn games, laughing and competing in that easy way young people do. The adults, on the other hand, gathered in small groups, conversations weaving in and out as stories were shared and connections renewed. Every so often, Miles would pause, step away from his friends, and come over to acknowledge us. Those small gestures meant more than he probably realizes.
Madighan and Maisie spent time sitting with us, chatting along with Greg, Heather, and Megan. It struck me how responsible all three grandchildren have become. Each of them has a job, has purchased their own car, and takes care of their own insurance. There is something deeply reassuring in seeing that level of independence at their age. Their futures look bright, and that thought stayed with me long after we left.
It was also a pleasure to catch up with Camille and hear about how well she is doing. Life moves forward in unexpected ways, but there was a genuine ease in our conversation, a sense that time has softened everything into something manageable and kind.
By the time we returned to the hotel, the contrast between the cold outdoors and the warmth inside felt especially comforting. We changed into more comfortable clothes and settled in for a quiet evening, watching Survivor, Season 50. After the damp air and hours of conversation, my coughing continued, lingering from this illness that refuses to let go fully. Being warm and still brought a sense of relief.
It had been a full day, in every sense of the word. A day of family, of small indulgences, of laughter, and of reflection. That is enough for now. We will be back.
Be well.
Photo from ten years ago today, June 1, 2016:
