My oldest son and middle child turned 43 last Wednesday, December 16.  I wish somebody could explain to me why the years seem to zip by so fast! 

Shawn was my largest baby, entering the world at 8 pounds even.  He also was the one most affected with colic.  Pretty much crying continuously for three months.  None of the common remedies for colic seemed to help.  But then.....once that nasty colic disappeared, Shawn became a happy, outgoing, and delightfully pleasant baby and toddler. 

Since he traveled around the country so much with his job, it had been many years since we'd celebrated his birthday as a family.  But this year....we did just that.

Brian surprised his brother by coming up from Tarpon Springs to celebrate, along with Veronique, Emma and Sebastian. 

Ray and I took Shawn to the Rusty Rim for dinner.  Brian and his group were there waiting.  When we walked in, the waitress said, "Are you meeting somebody?"  In unison, Shawn said, "No" and I said, "Yes."  He turned around to look at me with a totally confused looked on his face, as I pointed to a corner of the restaurant, which is when he saw everybody.  He shook his head and started laughing.  I'd say we did pretty good keeping it a surprise!

Following dinner, we came back to our house to celebrate with cake, gifts and even champagne.

And if Shawn is going to live in Gator country.......it's mandatory to be a Gator fan!  So Mom found the perfect gift.

Along with his favorite Lindt Truffles and an appropriate tee-shirt..........even at 43, one is never too old to believe!

And from Brian and his family.........a rosemary plant, to keep him "rooted" and balanced.

Brian also had a photo of my parents, their grandparents, enlarged and framed for Shawn.

We all wore silly party hats (hey, that's part of the fun!) had cake and ice cream, and enjoyed each other's company.

And Veronique and I toasted Shawn with some nice, bubby champagne.

I think it's safe to say that Shawn was pretty surprised his birthday turned into more than just dinner out with Ray and me. 

See you here next time...................