Joyful Day, Joy's Birthday

Yesterday, Bonnie hosted the birthday group at her house to celebrate Joy--our painter, book illustrator, jewelry maker, master naturalist.  Joy stopped by my house for a minute on our way and gave me "an early birthday present"--a pin she made replicating Luci to perfection! 

We'd all agreed to "stop with the birthday presents already," that we wanted each others' presence instead of presents.  It's a good rule especially since we are all letting go of things in our semi-old ages.  But rules are made to be broken, especially if you are browsing in the thrift shop and you find a vintage 1949 magazine cover that has your friend's name written all over it or if you are making jewelry and feel inspired to create a dog just like Luci. 

The purple, the leaves and birds, and the pretty little girl all reminded me of Joy and her paintings.

Later she sent me pictures of herself at her third birthday party--classic Joy! 

Joy at 3

Joy at 73

One thing these two birthday parties (70 years apart) have in common: four friends to celebrate

--though the latter one lacked balloons and candles. 

Now we four are septuagenarians: 

But we never let a birthday pass without some delicious food and conversation.