WE CELEBRATED !  And what a fun celebration it was!  Pop turned 90 on the 9th of July, but it was the 17th before we could all be together for the party.

Invitations were sent to two churches and other close friends.  We held the party at my house, and, even before 2:00 they started coming in!  And, they kept coming!  Friends for many, many years were here.  Friends of his and mother’s were here.  Young men he taught were here.  (Some of that teaching took place on a motorcycle!…other times, while gardening in his yard).  Friends  our age who have much respect for him.  And, even those with children the age of mine came to honor, him.

Pop loves to talk.  He loves to interact with people.  He wants to know who you are and what you are and why you are what you are.  And, if you’re not a Christian, you’ll know before you leave him.  And, you’ll get a few words of wisdom, too.  Like…” the most important decision you will ever make is to become a Christian.  The second most important is the choice of a mate.  Choose wisely, in both cases.”  And…“If you are lucky enough to be born in America, you are blessed beyond measure.”

He’s a talker and he’ll talk as long as you’ll listen.  But, he’s also wise and has seen much in his years.  And his joy is in giving to others.

Back to the party.  Joy and Suzanne and Lori and Tara came over to help me get ready on Saturday.  And, Ian came home, too.  Adam managed to take off work, and Praise God!, Alex was able to be up with us, too.  Tara and Will were here, and Lori with her boyfriend.  Tommy was here, too.  Only Donald was missing.  He had a business meeting out of town that was imperative he attend.

I am going to share a lot of pictures here…and most speak for themselves…

It was a glorious day!  Even if the skies opened up and sent a deluge of rain.  Many came right on through the rain!  So, outside it may have been yucky weather…but not inside.  Inside was filled with laughter and reminising…eating and drinking…catching up on lives of each other and children and grandchildren.  Inside was filled with the buzz of family!  Not all blood kin,  but all of the same heart.  A group of friends and family who have grown throughout the years to become a part of each other’s life…caring and loving one another…being available when hard times surface…laughing and playing and sharing the good times.  That’s what a family is.

To each one who came to celebrate with us…who sent messages…who helped with the party…who braved the rain…who loved us enough to share this special day we us…we thank you from our heart of hearts.