Dad’s 80th Birthday Celebration

My Wonderful Dad

Thom and I went to Yuma, AZ last weekend to join family in celebrating my Dad’s 80th birthday.  We went a couple of days ahead of time so we could help with the decorating and logistics of the celebration day.  Lisa was staying in the room next door to us at the hotel which gave us a little extra time together in the evenings.

My sister Linda was unable to come, so the family gathering wasn’t quite complete and we missed her being there to celebrate with us.

My brother Larry arrived the day of the celebration with his friend Jan. I hadn’t seen my brother in several years, so it was just wonderful to see him.   Jan is a lovely person who fit right in and added to merriment.  The family gathered round the patio table and reminisced.  There was so much fun and joy at just being all together.  There was more laughter than any of us had experienced in any one day in many years (if ever).  I laughed so hard that my ribs and chest muscles hurt for three days after the birthday celebration.

Lisa, Larry, Mom, Dad, Me

There is just nothing like having family together - sharing old memories and making new ones.  This event just recharged me and filled me with joy; and I’m certain the rest of my family felt the same way.  Now looking forward to next March when we’ll gather again to celebrate Mom’s 80th.  Family is so important and the dearest of treasures in life.