My Grandfather's 70th Birthday Party

EricMesa

July 20, 2009 - 3 minutes read - 435 words

Enjoying the Party by DJOtaku, on Flickr

After our mini-vacation to Naples, we went to Hialeah, Fl for my grandfather’s 70th birthday party. I wrote in May about wanting to capture photos of my grandfather at his birthday party. I was definitely able to do that.

The Entrance to Pavilion Four by DJOtaku, on Flickr

We got to the party way before my grandfather (it was a surprise party) so we could help set up.

Cigar and Hat Party Favors by DJOtaku, on Flickr

Cassandra swinging at Dan’s Pitch by DJOtaku, on Flickr

While we waited for him to arrive, the kids played baseball. It was very fun to see them playing because the equipment was just so large for their tiny frames. I took some time to try and capture some of that fun childhood innocence.

Brothers Playing Baseball by DJOtaku, on Flickr

Arriving, but not yet Comprehending by DJOtaku, on Flickr

Realizes the Party is in His Honor by DJOtaku, on Flickr

Kenny Goes to Welcome Abuelo by DJOtaku, on Flickr

Overwhelmed by Everyone at the Party by DJOtaku, on Flickr

Dancing with his Wife 1 by DJOtaku, on Flickr

Dancing with his Wife 3 by DJOtaku, on Flickr

Dan Video Taping Near My Dad by DJOtaku, on Flickr

Raul and Amy Dancing is not a reason to Interrupt the Smoking by DJOtaku, on Flickr

Enjoying the Punto Cubano 1 by DJOtaku, on Flickr

Enjoying the Punto Cubano 2 by DJOtaku, on Flickr

One of the Punto Cubano Poets by DJOtaku, on Flickr

The Other Punto Cubano Poet by DJOtaku, on Flickr

Here is the, admittedly lo-fi, recording my brother made of the Punto Cubano. Be forewarned if you know Spanish, there are some dirty jokes here so determine whether or not your kids or bosses should hear this.

Punto Cubano for Sotero Mesa from djotaku on Vimeo.

A Cuban Party isn’t a Party without a game of Dominoes by DJOtaku, on Flickr

I was so happy that I attended this party. I got to catch up with family members I hadn’t spoken with in ages. I got tons of photos of my family, especially my grandfather. And it was great to be there to see my grandfather’s face when he realized the party was for him. I think that moment will be with me for a long time.

Scrambling the Dominoes for the Next Game by DJOtaku, on Flickr