Monday, January 18, 2010

Dad's 80th Birthday!

It was the surprise to end all surprises! For dad's 80th birthday, all 9 of his living children snuck off to Phoenix, AZ to surprise him for his big day. We had been planning for months how we would all get there. It was tricky but I think we pulled it off!

We all arrived and hid out at a park a few blocks from our youngest brother's home while we waited for dad and mom to get to the house and settle down for a leasurely evening. One by one (starting with the child who lived the closest to Andy and ending with the one who lived the furthest away) we all entered the house within about 5 minutes of eachother. With each person who entered the house, dad expressed his surprise and sheer joy at seeing another one of his children show up at the door!

By the time we got to the remaining brother to arrive - Evan - dad was sure he wouldn't show since he didn't think that after all these years we might all end up in the same place together! But after waiting a few minutes after my arrival, in walked Evan! Dad stood and said, "By golly! You are all here!"

On the last night before we were to all head back to our own homes, dad stood up and said something that only he could say. He said, "If I never take another breath, the greatest thing that could have happened has happened. Thanks so much to all of you for taking the time to come and spend my birthday with me." We were all in tears and were so thankful to have such a great dad.
We had spent two days just enjoying eachother's company sharing stories, pictures, video, games, food and laughter. For me, one of the sweetest weekends of my life. The only thing that would have made it better would have been if my husband and children could have been there.


I'm so glad we were all able to all make it there for dad. He is a wonderful man and we all love him dearly. Love you, dad!









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