We Threw A Party!
This year, both of my parents turned seventy-five. That’s a huge milestone—I mean, these people are old!
My sweet mama had the idea to throw a surprise birthday party for my dad. After some consideration, my three sisters and I decided it would be a joint party—their birthdays are only four months apart. So, the game was on.
We told my dad it was my nephew’s engagement party and led Mom to believe it was just for him. Meanwhile, my sisters and I got to work ironing out the details, each of us using our unique talents—one handled shopping and organization, another decorated the cake, the third brought her craftiness, and the youngest worked her decorating magic.
It was awesome. They were so surprised!
We wanted to celebrate our amazing parents—both of them. They do so much for all of us, and we just wanted to honor them and give them a night to enjoy time with family and friends. And they did. Mom was in tears of awe and joy, and no one could wipe the smile off my dad’s face.
Watching our parents be celebrated that day reminded me just how much they’ve poured into us over the years. From showing up at every game or recital, to babysitting grandkids, to still calling just to check in—these two have lived lives of love and service.
It made me realize how rare and beautiful it is to celebrate people while they’re still with us—not just at funerals or milestone anniversaries. That day reminded me: love should be loud, and thankfulness should be visible.
“Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you.” —Exodus 20:12
