“Loving a baby granddaughter is a circular business, a kind of feedback loop. The more you give the more you get and the more you get the more you feel like giving.”
—Penelope Leach
Kim and Al Chien hosted a luncheon for our granddaughter Lyla's First birthday, and Cecile and I invited Glory, a whimsical faerie from "Happily Ever Laughter,” to entertain our precious little princess along with the children that joined in on the birthday celebration. Glory performed a magic show, did face painting and created balloon sculptures. From the moment she walked into the room, the kids knew they were in for something special. She added whimsy and sparkle to the event and it didn’t take long for them to fall under her enchanting spell.
Family and friends enjoyed an open bar, waiters and servers brought out platters of empanadas and spring rolls, and the luncheon offering were three types of salads, and a delightful assortment of finger sandwiches, followed by French macaroons, and birthday cake. After the event, we gathered up all the framed photos of Lyla with loving family members, grandmas, and grandpas, and filled up the back of three cars with presents for Lyla from family and friends who overrode the request not to bring gifts. When we left the venue the pouring rain scattered the avid golfers we saw when we first arrived and the sun was shining. It was replaced by a full rainbow. A small group of us including our daughter Michelle, Kyle and Lyla, and other family members met up at Kim and Al’s, had some drinks, and watched a little football while Lyla took a nap. When she awoke, we helped her open her birthday gifts. She was energized, cheerful and sported a smile that lit up the room, and oh my God, Al and Kim bought Lyla her first car and she was raring to go.
Getting back to the rainbow we saw earlier, It’s been said that rainbows speak directly to the heart and soul, offering the promise that the troubles of the day will surely come to pass, and in its’ place, fresh new beginnings. Cecile and I leave for Maui tomorrow, where rainbows make a frequent appearance. We can’t wait to share a little bit of paradise with Lyla who is taking her first maiden voyage to the great island in days to come.
Ode to Lyla
Your cute eyes
Your chubby cheeks
Your adorable sweet smile
Your curly little toes
Your tiny soft hands
Your itsy-bitsy feet
A little princess that makes our lives complete.
We smother you with cuddles
Shower you with kisses
Embracing you with love
Happy Birthday our sweet little misses!
Nonnie and Papa
