The mere words, birthday party, generate a sense of excitement and enthusiasm with people of all ages. In elementary school, these words can distract students for the entire day! I discovered that older people find the words exciting, too.
“Get up, Mom!” I announced as I entered her room. She was in her bed, a negative sight in the middle of the afternoon. “We have to get to the birthday party!” She immediately perked up. “Who? What? Where is it?” she asked. “It’s a birthday party, here in Gazebo Place. Hurry up! We don’t want to miss it!” The nurses helped her into the wheel chair, and we were off to the birthday party on the first floor.
Balloons greeted us upon arrival as well as the other residents who stared at me, wondering what I was going to do. “Did you play any games?” I asked. “That is just not something I do”, muttered a resident.” I persisted. “What about singing?” I inquired. “Yes,” they nodded. I led the singing and kept it traditional, even though it is always fun to sing the part elementary students enjoy. At the end of the song, we sometimes sing, “And many more, on channel four, with Scooby Doo….” However, I decided that could be too confusing!The aide brought us all kinds of goodies to eat– cupcakes, fruit, mixed nuts, and drinks which filled the air with a festive feel. The beautiful weather allowed us to sit in Gazebo Place and enjoy the party, given in honor of all residents with August birthdays.
Upon arriving back at 1891, I searched through my 2005 sabbatical journal for the birthdays we witnessed in the Netherlands.
Friday– Chloe went to a birthday party! Can you believe that she was invited to a party in another country? Caden was sad even after we explained it was only for girls. She was picked up by Mr. Ware, our American friend, and didn’t come back until 6 PM! A pinata’, tacos, and a craft kept them busy. Even though the Dutch girls basically ignored her, Chloe’ didn’t mind. The busy party caused her to fall asleep at 7:30.
Friday– We attended a birthday party for Baps, our neighbor. It included singing the Dutch birthday song, eating goodies, and listening to Baps’ friend share a special poem, written in honor of Baps’ birthday. Now I understand why my father always insists on writing poetry for our birthdays!
I wonder how many more Michigan birthday parties I will enjoy. Will we celebrate my mother’s birthday on September 24?
A Journey Worth Remembering 