little bro

Two days ago, my little brother Jorgie turned 17. He celebrated, as most teenage boys would, at a party with friends. Last weekend, however, my grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins came over for a family lunch and pre-birthday family fiesta. We love that kid.

This photo was taken during my high-school senior week... now, he's a high-school senior and applying to colleges all around the counry while I'm nearing college graduation and the real world. How time flies! It amazes me how much he's really grown up in the past few years.

Anyway, back to last Sunday. Between the chicken wings and nachos, my parents definitely placed appetizers with him in mind. I also made sure that there were crudités as well though and enjoyed quite a few handfuls with homemade salsa.

In another hour and a half, lunch was served. We began with Italian bread and my Aunts' salad.

Then helped ourselves to platters of Sausage and Peppers, Baked Ziti, grilled vegetables, Penne Vodka, and Filet Mignon. I had a large plate of salad, vegetables, and Penne Vodka (my sister and I's pasta dish of choice) for a delicious lunch. Soon after, I thought of the boy, diligently studying in the Bronx...

and made him a large plate too. Later that night I brought it down to him along with the remaining full platter of Baked Ziti. Him and his roommate could not have been happier!

Next, of course, came the dessert. We had a selection of brownies, cookies, and donuts.

And cake! My dad bought this particular one from Häagen-Dazs and thus, 'twas scrumptious. My whole family is all about high quality ice cream cake ;).

Happy belated (I called him the day of but it's belated for today's blogging purposes) Birthday Jorge! I hope this next year is the best one yet.