I awoke today and went about my morning routine as one does everyday. Whilst washing my face, I suddenly realised what day it was. The 15th of February, my own birthday! Eighty nine years old today! Upon leaving the bathroom, sweet Beryl ushered me back to bed and soon enough a fine breakfast was served. It was almost noon when I finally got dressed.
Much like my late father, I have never been one for grand birthday parties. Instead I prefer to spend the day with my family and friends, together at home. The last week has been spent finding, wrapping and labelling presents in anticipation for today.
It would of course be rather taxing to list every present. Here are but a few:
- To my son Bordo, who has returned from Michel Delving with his family this week, I gave one of my favourite writing slopes.
- To my grandson Bilgo, I gave a copy of 'The Adventures of Basso and Briffo Boffin', a story he seems to enjoy.
- To my daughter Beryl, I gave a beautifully illustrated book of poems. In the summertime, she spends much of the day reading poetry in the garden.
- To my son Biffo, I gave a collectable tankard from the Bullroarer Took Day celebration.
- To my daughter Cynthia, I gave one of Primrose's favourite pearl necklaces. It has been kept hidden away for too long now.
- To Borcho I gave a valuable first edition of 'The Roots of Pipe Weed', a book which concerns his own family - for it was the Hornblowers who first cultivated that plant in the Shire.
- To cousin Salcro I gave an old telescope, so he might spy on his neighbours and myself more discretely. With any luck he might take the hint.
