On the eve...

This evening as I write we are on the eve of hosting another party. These are now "Anderson " parties that started out as Bolen/Anderson parties, but perhaps started even before as other iterations of the summer (seasonal) bash. My Facebook memories came up today with 10 years ago my 2nd ever summer party (this after planning 10ish years of island parties a very different lifetime ago) , one that was very different, but of course some similarities, with the one that is planned for tomorrow. This is clearly one of my things, some type of annual event that celebrates often nothing more than life, but perhaps more. A gathering of friends and acquaintances, to get together , eat, drink, perhaps play games and/or listen to music and celebrate the passing of time. Previously we had a fall party, an elopement, a not a wedding, a fall party with pumpkin carving, a not a landlord party, a 60th birthday and perhaps one more.

This years event is called the 22 cent party, not going to give away the symbolism of this, but perhaps someone will guess or not, its ok, someone will leave with what we consider a pretty good door prize of summer goodies, including a little alcohol and some things many people might enjoy.

This event not held on any particular date, has become one that I look forward to having every year, why? Because its fun. A get-together with friends and family for no reason is a celebration of life. I don't want to wait until someone's passing to celebrate all of lifes successes and positive outcomes, i want to use that good china every day.

Now, my readers may ask what is your genuine goal? My goal is to have fun, to let other have fun, have a good meal, perhaps dance a little, or sing along with the band. Simply forget about whatever is going on outside and breathe.

Breathe...hmmm, what a concept. Not worry, is this so easy? No absolutely not. These for me were learned ideas. Even so much as planned. Life wasn't always as much play as today, there was significant work, tears, hardship, anxiety, frustration, disappointment, and anger. But what happened to me in the past 7 or so years was shear privilege. And I want to share this privilege and good fortune with whoever wants to dance in the rain or sun with me.

So raise a glass to life, enjoy a drink of your beverage of choice, and celebrate the good yesterday, today, or what is anticipated tomorrow, or perhaps all of the above. What we have today can be taken away in a moment or change for the good in the blink of an eye.