So here's the short of it, 
The Birthday Celebration has begun!

And here's the long.

I had an early birthday party today at Mom's house.

Steve and Pat drove up from Atlanta.  Russ came up to spend a few days visiting Mom and coordinated his visit to be here for the party!  Alan brought Mommy Anne over; Valdis was there with Kalie; and Liga was there as well. It was great to all be together.

The menu!       Fried Chicken
                          Corn (off the cob - frozen from the wonderful summer harvest)
                          Green Beans
                          Mashed Potatoes
                          Cole Slaw
                          Rolls and Cornbread
                                   and of course
                          Birthday cake.

But -- having everyone there was what made it the best of all!