My mother-in-law started the ‘birthdays’ tradition many years ago as ‘her boys’ were all born within weeks of each other but years apart.
The tradition started when the boys (including my husband) were young but carried forward as they grew into teenagers then young adults. It was always a family affair, probably born out of the necessity to celebrate once rather than three times in two weeks. The ‘birthdays’ were casual but never forgotten and always included the ‘favorite’ dessert of one of the boys each year. To this day they have conflicting views of favorite desserts. Lightning Cake for Ted, Upside-down Pineapple Cake for Scott (he says no) and I can’t recall or even know what Paul’s was.
I have tried to recreate Lightning Cake for family get-togethers in the past. Each of us has a different recollection, maybe influenced by the flavors we like best. I still believe that chocolate played a role (I like chocolate) but Ted says no, no chocolate.
Things change, families grow, we all live different lives, but a tradition should be honored, and it always feels good when we all get together, not to mention the recounting of the recollections of the previous year’s get togethers.
The ‘boys’ have all grown up but have not slowed down. RV enthusiasts, mountain climbing adventurers, avid golfers and fitness enthusiasts.
The grandchildren have all grown up too and are spread throughout the world pursuing their own version of life. Vloggers, engineers, marketing executives, wellness and healing instructors, each with their own lifestyle and lifestyle choices.
We hosted the birthdays last year, look forward to going to one this year. This is the menu from last year.
Appettizers
Charcuterie Board
Bits and Bites
Main
Easy Roast Chicken
St. Louis BBQ Ribs
Mac and Cheese
Romaine and Bell Pepper Salad
Dessert
Vanilla Custard Cream Cake
