Cheers for 80 Years!!

This past Sunday, July 21st, I had the pleasure of attending a wonderful 80th birthday party for my brother-in-law, Bob Lee. The celebration was hosted by Bob’s granddaughter, Brynn, at Angelo’s Italian Restaurant in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Some sixty family members gathered in the Isabella Room to commemorate Bob on his special day. It was fantastic seeing most of the family gathered together for such a festive reason. The last time we were all together we were celebrating another milestone, Bob and Maureen’s 50th wedding anniversary, some seven years prior.

The room was abuzz with conversations as everyone, especially the cousins were catching up with one another. The age of the party goers ranged from 3 years old into the 80’s, and all enjoyed being there. Brynn welcomed everyone and thanked them for coming. Bob and Maureen’s children, Bob, Maureen, Ray and Matt each spoke fondly of their relationships with their Dad and Mom and the upbringing they had. They encouraged their Dad to get up and say a few words, and Bob nostalgically spoke about his personal history growing up with his parents and brothers on Glendale Street in Northeast Philadelphia. It was very interesting to hear his rendition of the “good old days” and how his faith inspired his journey.

Geography prevents us from getting together as much as we would like, that is why these celebrations are so important. These days I rely on Facebook to catch glimpses of my nieces and nephews and their beautiful families. The significance of family cannot be overestimated and gatherings like these remind me of the love that we have shared over the past forty plus years. Thanks to all the members of the Lee family, especially Bob, Maureen, Walt, Ilene and their children who welcomed me into their family 44 years ago and have been so supportive to me and my now adult children. You are all true blessings! Love you all! Looking forward to our next celebration, Ilene and Walt’s, 50th wedding anniversary!