Happy 60th!

         Recently, my mom turned 60. For my dad's 60th last year, we threw a big surprise party, so we thought we should do the same for my mom. Because her birthday wasn't until the middle of August, and the kids would be back at school in KC, Wichita, and South Carolina, we planned it for the end of July so all the siblings could make it. Because my dad is gone all day every day at work, it was quite a bit easier to pull it off. We would bake pies during the day and freeze them, or even prepare stuff right under his nose, and he was totally oblivious. However, it was different with my mom. My sisters and i planned out as much as we could in advance but the only way to actually do anything was to get her out of the house. We convinced mom to meet my sister from KC in Topeka to shop for the day and then come home around dinner time. 

        Finally, the day of the party came. We made a game plan and as soon as she drove out of the drive...it was go-time! Kristen was in charge of decor. The party tent was set up, and the table were decorated. It looked great!

Inside, Anna and i were cooking up a storm. We had many hors d'oeuvre's to be made all in just a few hours. It was a challenge! We recruited some help and finally finished right before all the guests began arriving. Finally, as soon as everyone was there, mom and Emily drove in. It worked, she was surprised! It was so fun to meet or see again her older friends from growing up or her college years. Some guests drove from Oklahoma, so it was good to visit with them the next day, too!
   
    Overall, the party was a success and we were glad it all went smoothly.
I am so thankful for the 17 years my mom has poured into me and many years she's worked to bring this family together. She does so much for all of us, and we are so very blessed.