We did it! My SIL and I planned a surprise party for Dad. Had to make up all kinds of stories to get him to Salt Lake City w/o suspecting something (150 miles). And the day before, he got a phone call from his cousin wondering about the party in SLC. Aaarggghhh!!!! And the man didn't even show up!

We arrived at Dennys about 15 min. early and found their banquet room (reserved). There were a table of relatives already there -- Dad just thought it was serendipity. He was busy socializing with them while about a dozen others collected behind him.

Not exactly sure when the realization hit him that the gathering was in his honor, but he said he was flabbergasted! There were 34 total from as far away as Texas and California. We passed the microphone around so everyone could say a few words. Dad is a great kidder, so he received a lot of good-natured teasing yesterday.

One man came that Dad has known on and off for almost 80 years. The man, Delale, was about 13 when Dad drove a cream route (picked up cream from farms).

It seemed Dad always got stuck in the mud right in front of this guy's house. So Delale would hook up a team of horses and drag him to dry ground. And then charge him for it.

Dad maintains that Delale kept that spot muddy just so he could drag folks out. So they both say that the other one still owes them money!

It was a great time with fun folks.

THROWING ANOTHER CELEBRATION TOMORROW!!!

This one is no surprise, just an open-house for local family and folks from Senior Citizens to stop by and have a sandwich and say happy b-day to the oldest man in town!

See http://neurotalk.psychcentral.com/post330626-1.html for newspaper article about Dad being the oldest man in town.

I'll post pics later.

thats great, glad he enjoyed it .Well done twink and sil well done

That is GREAT, Twink!! I'm so impressed with all your plans, but most impressed and happy that he is able to enjoy the festivities. That's almost a miracle for someone that is 95! May he continue in good health in mind and body. What a wonderful family you have, and I might add, what a wonderful daughter you are!!

95!!! Now, that is something special. Sounds like your Dad had a great time.

Wish him Happy Birthday for us.

How cool!!!

did you hire anyone from the nusring home to jump out from a cake?????

Dangit! Knew I've forget something!!!

Thanks everyone for your well-wishes.

awesome twink. tell dad:

Wow Twinks.

How lucky you are to still have your dad around.

My dad was my best friend. Every act of kindness that I learned in my life, I learned from my father. He taught me to treat every repairman with courtesy and respect and to tip them well. I watched how he conducted himself in life, and I learned.

If he had lived he would now be 94 (On Aug 12).

So here's to dads everywhere and special smile for your lovely POP!!!

Melody

Twink you party animal! Glad you all had a great time, and your Dad enjoyed his birthday!