Tom opening a few of his birthday gifts:

Other goodies included a GC to Bookman's, and a stars-and-stripes bathing suit.

Around noon we headed over to Marcie & Mike's, who were ready with the "formal" luncheon he had requested...

We feasted on traditional 4th of July fare, fried chicken along with an array of deli salads.  But we made sure to save room for dessert, because Wanda had baked her specialty for his birthday cake.   

Before we dove into it, Tom can be seen making a wish - possibly for a good luck on his upcoming rock-hunting trip?  (He's leaving tonight.)

When we got home Tom snapped a photo with Brownie - and then Alex "fixed" it...