Happy Birthday, Bro

My brother Alfred celebrates his 56th birthday today. Because he chides me, his older brother, about my advancing age, receding hairline and general uselessness at each birthday I celebrate, I thought I would return the favour, here, for everyone to see.

Actually, I can't say anything bad about him because he is a good man, a good father and husband and a good brother. He is happiest puttering around on his farm, riding with family or friends, and making music.

I enjoy the time we share on horseback. He and I bought our first horses in 1969 or so and have spent many happy hours riding together since then. I no longer own any horses myself, but he always has horses and land enough for all of us to enjoy.

I enjoy the time we share 'jamming,' he and I on guitar and his son Jessie on violin. Alfred and I remember fondly a Saturday night in St. Catharines, Ontario, over 40 years ago, when we, along with a friend of ours, performed at a YWCA conference. Imagine, several hundred teenage girls and three guys! Music has always been an important part of our lives.

Yes, we're all getting older. I still can't believe how quickly time has gone. Thanks, Al, for all the fun times over the years. I wish you many more healthy and happy years ahead.