This is a belated post to celebrate my father's retirement! Well, Dad actually retired waaay back on July 22nd (this has been a long time coming, and I think something he's spoken about as a wonderful dream for as long as I can remember). On the 25th my Mom threw him a surprise retirement party, inviting all of his friends and family. So Ray and I took a moment to pause in vacation preparations to head down to my folks and celebrate.
This post is late because I just received the photos today- thanks Aunt Martha!
My Dad was shocked and thrilled to see everyone who came to celebrate. My Dad's two best friends from middle school, Phil and Chris, both made big trips to be at the party. Phil and his family came all the way from Virginia and Chris and his girlfriend drove over from Boston.
Even though they left middle school a long time ago, whenever they are together they end up acting like they are 13 again. One of the highlights of the party was a practical joke pulled on my Dad by Chris. Chris had brought a trick 8 ball with him. As my Dad proudly showed off the Man Cave a game of pool was suggested. Without my Dad realizing it, his normal 8 ball was switched for the trick one. Everyone was in on the joke, except my Dad, so we all piled into the basement to watch it unfold. It took forever for the guys to get through their game of pool, and my father was completely oblivious to the fact that EVERYONE was watching their game and Chris's girlfriend was evening filming it! When the 8 ball was finally the last one on the table, my Dad had the first crack at it; the ball started out straight, then took a lazy turn to the left and cork screwed a little bit. My Dad's response was "Well, I've never seen it to THAT before!" The crowd errupted with laughter and my Dad was filled in.
Besides the Man Cave, Dad was also very proud to show off the new tractor. As men do, they all crowded around and of course had to check out what was under the hood!
Dad was feeling generous, so he let Ray take it for a spin!
Here Dad shows off his marksmenship skills - except I think Mom is more likely to hit her target!
All in all, a great time was had by everyone! The food was yummy, the weather was gorgeous, and the company couldn't be beat! Congrats Dad! Now all you have to worry about is the condition of the lawn!