Surprise!

I have to laugh a little when I re-read my previous post.  Earlier last week my dad said I needed to update my blog.  I agreed and said I just hadn't had time.  It wasn't a lie, the thing was, I was too busy finishing up final details for his SURPRISE retirement party to be on the computer blogging. 

Over the past month my mom and I have schemed, lied, dodged and planned a get together for my dad to celebrate his retirement.  I think he was beginning to think that we completely overlooked this important event in his life.  We didn't.

Last evening we gathered at the Victoria House with about 40 friends and family to celebrate.   Before my dad arrived people kept asking if I thought he suspected anything...

 He didn't.

 Luckily after he got over his initial shock he wasn't too mad at us.

Dad, I am so proud of you and all that you have accomplished.  You are one of the hardest workers I have ever met.   I appreciate all the hours you spent working both at the office and away on trips to make sure we had the things we needed and things we just plain wanted as well.   Thank you for displaying that hard work really does pay off.  And thank you for reminding us always how fortunate we have been.   Last night one of your cards said something about making your time your own now.  We laughed because since you have officially retired you have spent more time helping all of your kids than anything else.  Don't think that lesson is lost on us either.   Not only do we appreciate the time and energy you spend helping us but we love having you around so much too.

So happy retirement, Dad.  We love you and hope you enjoy your new found freedom!