Sunday

Previous photo is of Gran enjoying party to celebrate her hundredth year. The above photo is of all of us here, i.e. daughter Ruth, granddaughter Tuva, Ann, grandaughter Freja, and son in law Lars, just before we set out for Gran's party. We were on the road by 9.30 a.m. and got to nephew William's pub, were party was to be held, just after 11.30 am. The rest of Gran's extended family were with us by noon. Gran claims 35 living descendants, which (as she says) isn't bad for an only child. William had done us proud, sandwiches, salads, chicken drumsticks, vol au vonts, etc. etc. Plus two cakes, a fruit cake, and a sponge cake. There were 53 of us, ranging from Jack, at 4 months, to Sid, in his nineties, and Gran in her hundredth year (and all points in between). The 'do' was held in the two end rooms of the pub, and the back garden (with a large, shady awning). Very little speechifying (thank goodness) but a great deal of real, honest, socialising. And, of course, very much catching up of news and relations not seen for a few years. Met one great nephew of eight years for the FIRST time - seems a decent little chap. Ten of our eleven grandchildren turned up (they are all pretty good at turning out for family occasions). Found that some of the great neices are turning into sophisticated young ladies.
A brother in law of mine summed it all up for me as:- "Isn't it nice to meet at a family get together that isn't a funeral ?" Knew just what he meant. And this one was a joyous occasion. Gran is a great lady. She is much loved by all her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren, and her company is enjoyed by all of them. It is possible to have a companionable silence with her, or a light, enjoyable chat, or occasionally to discuss serious things seriously. Despite her age, and whilst retaining her principles, she has a surprisingly open minded attitude to most things, and a good way of giving an honest opinion without ever giving offence. Long live Gran, say I. Goodnight all.