cinco de quatro

Cyndi had a birthday yesterday. She says it was great. She got many phone calls and cards from friends and family all day, and when I got home the phone was still ringing every few minutes. She should tell you about her day. In fact, she should contribute to this blog so you can get her perspective of the boys growing up and our time together as a family.

I took off early from work, swung around for last-minute gifts and cards, and went to Costco again for a cheesecake and fresh blackberries to go on top, more chips, more salsa, and, oh, we had forgotten the limes. I broke down and bought the economy size paper plates, paper bowls, napkins, and dinnerware. Now we are set for years of picnics. Then a bag of ice and a mad dash at home, cleaning bowls and platters and Margarita glasses, making the first batch of Margaritas, and generally getting the food ready for guests due to arrive for "happy hour" on Cinco de Mayo.

Jackson was busy upstairs making a pop-up birthday card for Cyndi. Pam came first to make her fabulous chile con queso. Friends from work and old friends came by. Vicky brought more limes, more chips, and more beer. Dorie brought beans. Elley brought salad. The kids began to run around outside. Rylee and Loren played in the sandbox. There were enchiladas, taquitos, guacamole, and watermelon. Mexican beer was chilled.

The kitchen was crowded with people. I think they had a good time. At some point, people sat outside, where it was breezy and cool. After a few batches of Margaritas, the food all but gone, we brought out the cake, lit the candles, and turned down the lights. Cyndi was beaming as we sang, "Happy Birthday to you."

After the guests had left and a quick clean up, Jackson, Rylee and I got our cards and presents for Cyndi. Both Jackson and Rylee signed a card that asked her how much they loved her. Guess. Give up? When she opened it, the arms of a cartoon animal unfolded and stretched out very wide. Inside, there were both the boys' names and the card said, "This much."