There have been many instances in life where the notion "build it and they will come" have been used. Herb Kohler has built hotels, restraurants, golf courses and shopping malls that were aimed at the "upscale" market. Everyone said he was insane. But he built them and they came.
Last Saturday, your mom, her sister JoAnn, and brother Bob (with a very big assist from Mary) decided to use the same theory with a party for Nana to celebrate her 95th birthday. They would organize the party and people would come. It would be held in Plymouth, Wisconsin. It would be held at Bob and Mary's. It would be from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM on Saturday, February 11, 2006.
And they came!
They came from Phoenix, Arizona.
They came from Cotton Lake, Minnesota (13 hour trip).
They came from Boston, Massachusetts.
They came from Chicago, Milwaukee, Madison, Sheboygan, Appleton and all around.
The turnout was incredible. For Nana there were many surprises with the biggest being a visit from little sister Lois. Lois had journeyed with son-in-law Kieth from Minnesota and I'm sure many childhood stories were relived with Nana. It is hard to believe that Lyla was 15 years old when Lois was born.
And there were Grandchildren. Many grandchildren. They brought with them many great-grandchildren.
And there were friends. Many friends. Nana's quilting group traveled "in mass" to celebrate. There was coffee, tea, cake and ice cream.
There were gifts.
The party lingered into the evening. The person who seemed to draw energy from the clambake was Nana. People were falling from fatique all around her. That is except for the children who just didn't want to go home. And who glowed through the night? It was Nana.
So lots of people made a 95 year old birthday girl very happy. Nana has always set the standard for class, respect and high moral fiber. She is a very special lady.
I guess it is true. "If you organize it, they will come".
And to Mom, JoAnn and Bob (and Mary), congratulations on creating some very special memories.
Love,
Dad
wausau was forgotten lol