It was a bright and sunny day..
...Not as hot as it has been. And the breeze was cool and comfortable. The afternoon sun hit the deck. But there was no need for sunscreen. Everyone wore a mask and many also disguised themselves with sunglasses and hats. Incognito was there order of the day. And if you did not have a mask, bright blue Rotary masks were on sale for $5.
The host had put out four bins -- one for birthday cards, another for canned and bottled drinks, a third filled with ice-cream sandwiches and one for trash. The hostess came round with napkins for all. And roll of paper towels sat next to a nearby planter. Everything anyone would need for a festive birthday celebration!
The birthday boy sat in front of a screen, intent on his Internet interactions as an adolescent with a game board. From time to time another guest would arrive, walking the trail around the house that was outlined with cautionary signs warning of steep and rough terrain. The order of the day was to pause in front of the wooden railing, look up to survey the party scene and figure out what password or hidden entrance might lead onto the elevated deck.
Once on board they all talked and talked and talked and talked: "Havn't seen you for a while!" "Yes, my hair is getting long." "I have begun sorting and storing photos from many years past..." "Who will want to keep all this stuff after I am..."
And upon arrival and before departure, everyone made sure to greet and fete the honored guest, "Happy 94th birthday, Del! Looking forward to many more...!
