Happy Birthday Moe!

My Mom turned 60 on the 21st! Since it was Father's Day, we chose to celebrate her early with a surprise party on the 14th. She has been such a huge blessing in my life and the lives of so many people that we (her kids) thought she deserved a special celebration for her big 6-0. My sister Kate did a bunch of the planning and organizing of the event, and the other siblings and their spouses helped a bunch with the execution that weekend and my family basically just showed up with the makings of a memory book for my Mom's friends and family to leave notes in.

the grand-kids made this banner (with Kate's help)

tea, water and sangria

Kate made this great display of pictures of Mom throughout her life

Morgan ordered and then decorated this awesome cake

The party turned out really nice and it was so nice to see Mom celebrated by several of the special people in her life. The weather ended up being great (after some stress inducing pre-party rain) and the grand-kids had a blast running around the park and playing together. All the guests seemed happy and relaxed and Mom seemed to have a really nice time! You could really tell how much all the people in attendance love and appreciate her. I hope when I am 60 I can say I've had a fraction of the positive impact on the world that my mom has had. I'm so proud to call her Momma and to have my kids call her Moe. God has used her in wonderful ways and I know he has even more planned for her in the next several years!

enjoying the yummy fajita dinner

Dad flew Molly and Ryan in for the occasion! Such a treat and mom was very surprised!

the hostess with the mostess and guest of honor!

My awesome and adorable parents :) I hope Philip and I look this good at 60!

Sweet Nate loves Moe

Mom's neighbor, walking buddy and friend, Linda (I used to baby sit her 3 kids often!)

Mom and Rebecca (met when I was in Kindergarten with her oldest, Amanda)

Mom's childhood best friend, Connie. I've always thought their relationship was so special

Friends and old neighbors, the Whitmores

All here because this special lady married a great guy and sacrificed so much to raise us 4 crazy kids

Happy 60th Birthday Mom! I pray you enjoy MANY more special birthdays and that in years to come we have the opportunity to celebrate you again and again :) I love you Momma!!!