Birthday Blessings

Yesterday l celebrated my birthday quietly, at home with the family. I woke up with a cold on Friday and so we did not make it to the Smiddy ~ l was a little sad about missing this venue but did not want to spread a virus around. There is always another time for that anyway as it is not far from here. My brother and sister-in-law called around, phone calls wishing me the best came through, my blogging friends left kind messages and my husband gifted me with such thoughtful presents ~ not forgetting the musical video clip with our wee Sam. I will cherish these memories and gifts always.

I have recorded a short thank you poem by Norman MacCaig . He is one of my favourite poets and G. gave me a big book of his works for my birthday. In the film below you can hear me reading from the pages. This poem reminds me of my grandparents, they were married for 75years and were a fantastic couple. The love of poetry in my family comes through this line (dad’s) and l can still hear the lilt in my Granny’s voice, as she would recite her favourite poems. My Grandpa was a wonderful tenor. Between them both l remember fun times gathered at their place, listening to poetry and singing.

G. also bought me a music CD by Dougie MacLean. He is one of Scotland’s foremost singers and songwriters ~ he lives in Dunkeld. G. called him up to see if he would sign my copy (he did!) They ended up having a wee chat about guitars over the phone. G. said to Dougie, “l know all of the tunings you use” and Dougie replied, “ I am glad someone does as l can never remember!” :)

For dinner we had our traditional Sunday Roast ~ made by G. He also made a delicious chocolate cake! I made a dish to accompany the dinner called Potatoes Dauphinois~ goodness knows how many calories were in every bite but it was delicious! Towards the evening we gathered around the dining table and played Trivial Pursuit, drank ample amounts of red wine and laughed. It was a good day. Thank you again for helping to make it so.