70 Pigs to Mark the Day

 There is a Very Special Person we know who has always loved pigs, and she just turned 70!
(Pssst. It's my mom-in-law! Grandma Owen!)

We hosted a small birthday dinner for her until next summer's big bash with all the people who love her, and we thought pigs would be just the thing for festooning the house.

Pigs festooning.
A festoon of pigs.

She and Dude had just returned from an extended visit with the Nye family in order to meet the newest little grandbaby, so it had been a while since we'd seen them. When they arrived, nearly the first thing she did was to sit down upon her piggy throne of birthday honor and-- get this-- unpack a giant box of presents for the CHILDREN. What?!

Millie came running to me with a grin and said, "I knew it! Grandma is a hobbit!" Bilbo would certainly approve, and, truth be told, the children had no complaints. ;)

All she got in return was supper and a lousy cake...

but it was a PIG.

When the time came, we all sang a hearty Happy Birthday.

And when the time came,

 Piper strong-armed Aidan so that he wouldn't steal all the birthday wishes. Ha!

         


Most of you reading here, and definitely anyone who knows me in real life, know what a warm and generous woman my mother-in-law is. Even if you've never met her, I've shared enough stories for you to probably feel as if you do. It's telling that the only complaint I have about my relationship with her is that she spoils us too much. Um. Yes. That's it.

Forget all those horror stories you hear about mother-in-laws.  Mine is a clever, big-hearted, open-handed lady, full of funny stories and a rich history. God has blessed us through and by this woman, and I am grateful for her love to her children, to me, and, now, to her grandchildren. What a treasure my children have in their grandmothers!

So, happy birthday to you, Grandma Owen! Until next summer, we'll pack the pigs away. We love you!