Burns Toast in Peoria, Arizona

[Sionnach]

On Sunday, the 25th, 18 people gathered at our home to take part in the Worldwide Toast to Robert Burns. Since I was host and photographer there were some great photos that never got taken. But here's a few that did:




A little later the Laphroigs 15 and Quarter Cask Strength, Glenfiddich 12, Glenlivet 12, and even Lagavulin 16(?) showed up to grace this table. some folks brought nosing glasses so we were able to have a true whisky tasting experience.

[Sionnach]

Darin (Thunderbolt) was on hand to do some piping. Craig (Retro Red) who does gigs as a mobile DJ set us up for music in the main rooms and outside. He has the Complete Songs of Bard, which was great background music- though we didn't get through all (almost 400) songs. I think we figured that it woud take 3 more parties to hear them all without repeat.

[Sionnach]

Even the wee doggies took part, though the bigs one (out 2 goldens) hung out in the garage so that the wee lassie wouldn't be too overwhelmed. After the official toast, we added a few more impromptu toasts, then had a pass the mike and general education time about Robbie Burns, Scotland and the Wearing of the Kilt- eof course the Question was asked to which Retro replied- "Nothing is worn, it all works just fine, thank you."

[Spartan]

Todd, Thanks for hosting us. It was a great time. And, thanks for the pictures.

[Sionnach]

Retro Red from the back. Frank (Spartan) is standing next to Thunderbolt in a previous picture. He brought over his world famous shortbread- many people ended up eating dessert first, including yours truly. all the fod was fabulous, one of the missed photos.

Our group was somewhat international- Italy, Ireland, Hungary and Croatia were represented. I think everyone enjoyed themselves which is really whatr it was all about.

[Panache]

Fun pictures

I'm glad you were able to participate in the the toast

Cheers

Jamie

[McMurdo]

Excellent photos, glad you had a good Burns day.

[Retro Red]

Good friends, good Scotch, good food, good music, good weather! What more could you ask for?

It was interesting to see the reaction of Sionnach's Scottish Terrier when Thunderbolt started playing his bagpipes. She came in from outside as if responding to a Siren's call & sat in rapt attention listening to the pipes. It was as if an ancient rememberance of that sound was embedded in her DNA.

It was fun participating in what was hopefully a record-setting event, but even if we didn't set a record, this was one for the books, in my book!

.

[SFCRick]

good for you