Happy St. Patrick’s Day…and a birthday

Jordan with the love of her life

St. Patrick’s Day has always been a high holiday around my house—it’s the birthday of my baby girl, Jordan Elisabeth. This year, she’s . . . well, we won’t go there. For years, ever since she was young, she requested tacos for her birthday party; even as a married mother, she wanted tacos. And Jordan likes to celebrate with a crowd—she loves a party. So tonight, there were about twenty-five folks wishing her well.

But the menu changed. It was a St. Patrick’s Day pot-luck, and there was a bit of everything Irish, from green deviled eggs to shepherd’s pie made with corned beef (gosh, was that good!). I made a Reuben dip—yep, all the ingredients of the classic sandwich in a dip form. Someone brought corned beef and cabbage, and Jordan’s brother—my Jamie—and his Melanie arrived with a platter of tacos and all the fixings. Too many other things to name. A bounteous feast.

I love these parties with her friends because I feel like the queen bee—or else the aging dowager (haven’t quite figured that one out). But I get kisses and hugs from all her friends and most of their kids as they come and go, and I am so grateful to be around younger folks. Some of my friends were included, along with some of the neighbors, so it was a varied group.

In high school, Jordan had two best buddies—Rob Seume and David Barnes. I love that those three are still what they called themselves back then—the three musketeers. So here the three are tonight and at her 2004 wedding. I am tempted to quote poetry, something about age shall not wither nor dampen friendships. These pictures are fourteen years apart and yet don't capture the span of their friendship.

The other high point of my day was going to church with Jacob. He went to the Pastor’s Class (they have a much more high falutin’ name for it these days) at ten and then met me at the valet parking at eleven so we could go to church together. Color me one proud and happy grandmother. I wore the only green top I have, though Jacob insisted it was turquoise, and he offered to show me the green waistband on his underwear, which was his only green. It was fun to see the various shades of green scattered throughout the congregation.

When we got home, I asked if he’d get my walker out for me, and he said, “Naw, I’m going in the house.  See you later, Juju.” Of course, he came around, got the walker, and saw me inside. He has learned from his uncles how to pick on Juju.

Such a full day—no work accomplished, and now I’m sleepy. It’s an early bed time for me tonight.

May the road rise to meet you.

May the wind be always at your back.

May the sun shine warm upon your face.

The rains fall soft on your fields.

            And until we meet again,

May the good Lord hold you in the palm of his hand.

Got to share this last picture. I don't always look this good in pictures. Must be Jordan's loving arms or her influence.