A Memorable Weekend

We celebrated Grandmother's 80th birthday over the weekend.

I flew to South Carolina on Thursday. Grandmother, Aunt Beth and I went out to lunch at a sweet tea room and then for a tour of the Biltmore House on Friday. If you have never seen this estate in person I highly recommend a visit. Rent the audio tour; it contains interesting information about the many rooms you'll see, and helps keep you moving at a good pace. My favorite room was the library, but the whole place was fascinating.

Aunt Sandi and Uncle Bob arrived on Saturday morning, so we spent a good part of the afternoon shopping for groceries and party decorations. We found a fine "tiara" for Grandmother which read "Older than Dirt", and party hats for the rest.

The celebratory dinner was held on Saturday night, beginning with appetizers at 6:30. Aunt Sandi presented pretzels and vegetables with a selection of dips and an outstanding Brie en croute with a raspberry hot pepper glaze. The second course was a cream of carrot soup with seasonal herbs (prepared by me). Aunt Beth presented a salad of baby spinach leaves with corn, craisins and glazed pecans dressed with raspberry vinegrette. The main course was pot roast with gravy (prepared by the birthday lady), mashed potatoes, and green beans with toasted almond slivers. Uncle John baked a classic New York style cheesecake for dessert which was served plain or with strawberries. Gifts were presented during dessert and the entire evening was complemented by songs and stories.

On Sunday I went to church with Grandmother and Grandfather. Later in the afternoon Sandi and Uncle Bob flew home and I had supper at Aunt Marty and Uncle John's, topping off the evening with the season finale of "Survivor" at Aunt Beth and Uncle Scott's.

I flew home this morning and was met by Pop, Elisabeth, William and Jesse. Lots of fun, but glad to be home and ready to head off to bed.