80 New Years

Today my father turned 80 years old.

I wasn’t there to celebrate with him but I was there in spirit and of course through the phone when I called to wish him both Happy Birthday and Happy New Year.

He roasted a duck just like he does every year, it’s his favorite birthday tradition.

And from the picture my SIL sent me it looks like he had his favorite cake too, German chocolate.

Today was one of those days I wish I had some sort of science fiction-y machine that could have taken me there and back in no time.

I really thought those were supposed to be around by now.  I mean here we are in 2013!!

But he was just here a few days ago, hugging my kids and just being my Daddy, like he always has.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DADDY!  I LOVE YOU SO MUCH!

Last night we rang in the new year with some good friends, who are also neighbors.  It was nice to be only two blocks away from the kids, I felt better about not venturing too far from home.

We played games and had a good time, albeit some serious conversations too about the state of things in our country and our world.  But I love that I have good friends that I can discuss that kind of thing with too.  It makes me feel a little better about it all…

And of course, there were completely celebratory and joyous moments too.  I mean, we are here and enjoying life, so… 😀

Happy 2013 to you all!!  I do hope it’s a prosperous and beautiful New Year!