Happy 80th Birthday, Dad

My father (the world's greatest) turned 80 yesterday. On Saturday. May 9, 2009 we held an "open house" birthday party for him at Kickapoo Creek Park in Lincoln. In lieu of presents, Dad asked for people to bring canned or boxed goods to be donated to DOVE in Clinton. I have three big boxes full of food to deliver tomorrow (IF the rain has stopped; otherwise, no way!) Dad enjoyed talking with old friends and family members. He got a very moving note from his niece Leslie, thanking him for being such a good uncle. She was very eloquent and touched dad and mom's heart with her kindness.

The folks had a 55th wedding anniversary party nearly two years ago. They had the same request...donations for DOVE. After so many years together, they didn't NEED anything else. This is a great idea for celebrations, especially with the poor economy and need in general.

shel
p.s. I found three morel mushrooms and my husband found one. Ya-Hoo! Dad had a feast.

Bryan's Special Day

Recently my grandson Bryan turned 3 years old. His mommy & daddy threw a wonderful party for him in their new back yard. Bryan got many wonderful presents, but his two favorite were the child-size red wagon (he pulled it around the yard and cried when he had to give it up in order to open more presents) and his Lamborghini. All of the kids had a great time playing on the new swingset (thanks to Papa Max for putting it together, and Wal-Mart for marking it down to $25.00!)

Bryan is coming over to spend the night. I will have a surprise for him...the kids' room will be cleaned of clutter and rearranged! Erin & Jaden came over yesterday to help me pack up the crafts from the captain's bed drawers, and we took the bed to their house. Maybe this surprise is not as exciting as a wagon or battery-operated car, but still pretty cool. Guess that means I need to hang up and get busy organizing!

shel