Sometimes great experiences come from not-so-great things. This weekend was a prime example of that.
My dad hasn't been doing well for quite some time now. His health has been very up and down lately...and unfortunately the bad days often outnumber the good ones. I hate it that the strong man I've known all of my life is getting weaker and is now unable to do the things that he once did without effort. It makes me feel sad and a bit powerless.
I think my brothers both notice his decline in health, too, although we never talk about it. It is what (I think) prompted Rob to plan a surprise party for Pop's 71st birthday. I admit that I was shocked at the suggestion. I thought it was a really good idea, and I wanted everyone to be able to spend time with Pop before it was too late...but I honestly didn't know if it would happen. People are busy...and it wouldn't have surprised me if many of them had already had plans for Labor Day weekend. But, I was on board with the idea from the beginning. I crossed my fingers that the people who RSVP'd would actually show up.
As the planning stages continued, I began to get cautiously optimistic about the party. I thought it would make Pop feel great to see how many people love and care about him. I kept my fingers crossed that everyone would come and that he'd have a good day.
Saturday morning dawned sunny and cool. Rob and Shawn left early in the morning to go to F'town to start setting up tables and grilling. By the time the girls and I made it to the house, people were already arriving. I found Pop surrounded by his 4 sons (and son-in-law)...two of whom he hadn't seen in several years. As the morning turned into afternoon, more and more people started arriving. By the end of the day, 83 people had come to help Pop celebrate his birthday. I think it made him happy to spend time with so many family members and to catch up on old times.
I know it was one of the best days I've spent in quite awhile. I didn't get the chance to talk to everyone for very long...but it seemed as if everyone was enjoying themselves catching up with family that they hadn't seen in some time.
For me, visiting with my brothers, nieces and nephews was the highlight of my day. It's funny how time passes so quickly, and you can not see someone for 10+ years...but pick back up like you just saw them yesterday. It's amazing and wonderful how strong family bonds are...and I thank God for the opportunity to strengthen those bonds after all of these years.
