This past weekend, I went to a birthday party. A Centennial Birthday party. I have a Great-Great Aunt who turned 100 this weekend.

Most of my immediate family loaded up and drive to Lafayette, LA for the shin dig. It was good to see everyone. Unlike most family, ours is large and fairly non-dysfunctional. We mostly get along, and enjoy each others company. Family gatherings are actually something I I look forward to. A rare thing in these days.

Anyway... "Auntie" the Birthday girl was looking sharp. She was feeling good. One of the amazing things about Auntie, is that even with her age, she still does not need a wheelchair or even a walker. She is still able to get up and walk around. I was amazed, she was on her feet for a good portion of the party.

On the drive back, I reflected about the importance of a 100th birthday. I kept thinking about how many thing Auntie has seen in her lifetime. The technological changes, the social movements, the wars that have raged across the planet. Yet, through it all, she raised not only her family, but has been around to see her grandchildren to have children of their own.

I firmly believe that her values and matronly influence has thoroughly permeated the fabric of my family. As I mentioned above how well we all get along - it all rolls back to my parents, who got it from their parents, who in turn got it from Auntie.

Here are some pictures I took of the party.