And even when I am old and gray-headed, O God, do not abandon me, until I declare Your strength to this generation, your power to all who are to come. Ps. 71:18
What a privilege to celebrate my Dad's 90th birthday last month! Planning began months before as I and my siblings live miles apart and our collaboration would be by text and emails. Immediate family members were invited by mail and we secured a group gathering room in the retirement complex where my dad and Lena live.
Sister-in-law Libby lives an hour away from the folks so she was able to make the food arrangements. Our step-siblings who live in the community were, also, eager to help with food and planning.
A niece who specializes in parties and special events came up with the décor for the cake. Dad has always been a "fix-it" man. His workshop in the basement of the home where I grew up, was constantly a buzz with saw and hammer. I can still feel, see and smell the fluffy sawdust that blanketed the floor of his workspace. His early retirement years were filled with crafting furniture that he sold to orders from friends and family. When he and Lena moved into their current apartment, he claimed a spot in the communal workshop in their building. He wondered how it would be to share tools with others who might not value order and maintenance as he did, but the arrangement seems to be working for him, and he still produces beautiful pieces of woodwork. He continues his title of Fix-it Man among the residents of his community. Have a walker that needs new wheels or repair? Take it to Omar. Dad even invested in a walker he can loan out while his customer is waiting for the repairs to be made.
Back to the cake. Jaime found a toy tool set and arranged them on the icing. How clever and befitting!
The celebration weekend arrived! Last minute plans took shape as siblings and in-laws from out of town converged in Virginia. Non-planning visiting and activities added extra sweetness to the time together. Dad was excited to say the least!
The appointed evening found us ready with balloons swaying on the tables, old time pictures and a slideshow, and a spread of pizza choices, salads and drinks. As we finished eating, introductions were made and Dad's children shared memories of growing up and Dad's involvement in our lives. (You can read the memories I collected from grandchildren and a brother who couldn't attend the party and my own reflections here) An open sharing time allowed others to express their appreciation for my father. Two of his step-kids shared the good things he has added to their family, even naming him the most gracious man they have ever known. As our time ended, Dad was asked what hymn he would like us all to sing. We topped off the evening with a satisfying rendition of What a Friend We Have in Jesus.
Dad, I hope you were blessed as much as we were and we pray for many more years for you of good health and enjoyment of life. I know you look forward to the next life ahead whenever God deems it should be. But for now, we love our times together and appreciate your strength, wisdom and the love you give our family.
We love you, Daddy.
