“I’m thrilled to announce I’m retaining a mental age of about 39, a physical age of approximately 49 and an emotional age of about 12. However, the bad part about scheduling celebrations is that they’re always done in accordance with the “Big Bang” theory, meaning you start counting on day one. In my case, that goes back a bit more.  The timing of the party relates to the big bang.  But I’m personally celebrating the other three ages.  I hope you join in the feast.”
-Barry

A while back, I had the fortune of photographing the intimate birthday party of a wise-cracking, fun-loving local legend named Barry Swanson.

The party took place in the lovely walled-in bier garten at Sudpfanne Restaurant, here in the Heidelberg Altstadt…

Young and old came to dine, toast, share stories and celebrate their friend.

And the pièce de résistance, of the table, was a whole roasted suckling pig, brought over from local husband and wife butchers….

Of course, they paraded the pig through the courtyard for all the guests to admire…

Before cutting it up to be served.

The US was playing Ghana in the World Cup that night. And since a lot of Americans were in attendance, a big screen was set up to watch during the meal. People took turns eating and laughing, and intently watching the match…

Unfortunately, the US lost.

But everyone still managed to have a good time, well into the night…

Complete with cake…

…and sparklers!

Cheers to you, Barry…and thanks for a rollicking good time!