This week, my dad turns 95.
When COVID derailed an in-person party for his 90th birthday, I told him we’d have a huge party to celebrate his 100th birthday.
Then a little voice whispered to me back in the midst of a summer heat wave that we really should have a party to honor Dad’s 95 years of living.
So we did.
This past Saturday, Captain Cavedweller and I hosted a party for him in the fellowship hall of my aunt’s church. It was a perfect location and an incredible day that made many wonderful new memories.
When I asked Dad what theme he’d like for his party, he didn’t hesitate to say “John Deere.” Once a farmer, always a farmer. So we had a fun theme of John Deere for the party.
Tables had centerpieces of green bandanas, framed photos from Dad’s life, jars with sunflowers, greens and tractor picks, and “95” confetti spread around.
My niece let me borrow her sons’ toy combine, and a local florist created an amazing arrangement to set in the hopper. It included wheat which was so perfect for Dad.
I asked Dad what kind of cake he wanted, and he chose white with strawberry filling. We also had German chocolate cake (Mom’s favorite), cookies for the kiddos, and the standard nuts, mints, and Hershey’s kisses.
The highlight of the party was when my uncle (Dad’s only brother, who just turned 91 last month) came to the party. Dad and Uncle John haven’t seen each other in almost six years. They talk on the phone all the time, but seeing them reconnect in person left many of us teary eyed at their beautiful, emotional reunion.
It filled our hearts so full to see them spend a good part of the party sitting side by side.
To everyone who came out to help celebrate Dad’s birthday – heartfelt thanks to you. Thank you for joining in the laughter and fun and making it a day we’ll always remember.
Special thanks to Brad and Brenda for helping set up and tear down, for the sunflower centerpieces and always being willing to lend a hand. Thanks to Karla and her girls for serving, and to all the helping hands!
3 Responses
Happy 95th Birthday!
The picture with his brother is priceless.
My dad is 96 1/2 years old. We are blessed to still have our dads with us. My mom passed away 20 years ago.
Hi Nancy,
That is wonderful your dad is still with you. Enjoy every moment with him! And so sorry for the loss of your mom. It’s hard to lose our mothers.
Such a nice party and boy, I had tears for the reunion of your dad and his brother! It’s one thing to talk on the phone, but a whole lot better to see them in person. I’m so glad his party was such a success.
The decorations are amazing!