The Retirement Celebration

I'm in recuperation mode from a month of planning

and seeing it all come together in a happy celebration.

One way I do this is to go through photos,

thankful for the ones shared by family.

I could not keep the party a surprise since he had to help me gather the guest list.

We went back over the past 49 years of staff,

and I tried to connect with as many as I could. 

It was wonderful even just to talk to numerous ones on the phone. 

We put many hands to work in preparation.

Stephanie, is a friend and decorator who not only gave me some good ideas, 

but also has a collection of frames, boxes, tables etc which she brought over to decorate our shop.

I simply had to collect the photos and memorabalia such as old newspaper adds,

plans, wallpaper books, wood, tile and carpet samples

and she made the shop look like a showroom. 

Frames, bunting banners and building plans are such a great idea to create backdrop!

Herb was not allowed in here until just before guests arrived.

It was a walk down memory lane, showing how times have changed.

Stephanie and I conspired together about centerpieces.

She proceeded to gather and put together what was needed. 

I am so thankful that we had a beatiful day to set up and celebrate.

Such a wonderful gift! 

Time just flew and all too soon the string quartette came along for a short concert

while guest were arriving.

I had talked to Dr. Calvin Dyck (Julene's violin teacher many years ago)

about getting a group together,

and when they arrived I was so excited to see that he himself came out.

I could not have asked for anything better!

In the meantime Kristal served punch as guests gathered.

One of my very favorite things was seeing people who had not seen

each other for years, suddenly recognize each other.

There was so much joy! 

Greek food was delivered 

and Monika and Bob took over the serving 

and later the clean up. 

I don't have much for photos, but they had all the kids

helping in various ways.

Even if just running the water down to the tables.

It's a day they will not forget ...

for as Jade commented on their way home

"Well ... that was a night full of work!!!"

Mics call out to kids.

A very different view of the pickle ball court. 

It made me very happy.

They're still smiling.

The dessert bar was a highlight, even if I do say so myself! 

I didn't hear any excuses about  not having dessert ...

At the tables we had some advice, memories and  wishes to be filled out. 

A night to remember.

Like I said in my tribute, 

it would seem that I am very happy to have my husband home and I am.

As we read the wishes and memory cards later

I was again reminded of the many who noted that they were thankful

for the chance that they were given ... often those new to the area or country. 

It was a night to celebrate all of these 

and a night to bless my H, for his integrity and faithfulness through 

good times and hard times.

A man I deeply admire and love,

looking forward to what God has in store for us.