The standing zombie SLANKET!

Mom Turns 60!

When Dad turned 60 Mom had a big party. So last year when Mom turned 59 Andrew and I decided that we would have a party for Mom. And doesn't everyone need to have a surprise party at least once in their life? So began the planning. Anna agreed in January to have the party at her home. I started asking for photos and letters. The invitations were sent out, with the wrong date, so more phone calls, just a little bit of stress...

It was all worth it when Mom looked so happy, and all of her friends looked so happy, and Mom felt loved.

This picture was taken on April 6, 2006 - the actual day, at the Octagon Restaurant.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY OLD LADY!!

Look at the happy couple. This picture was taken at the Octagon Restaurant on Mom's birthday.

It was fun to introduce Joanie as the reason for the party! If it weren't for Joanie, Mom wouldn't have come to Canada, and she wouldn't have stayed. Joanie and Anna introduced Mom and Dad. And I think Joanie had lots of fun telling everyone stories about Dad and her tulips.

When Dad would come to pick up Mom for a date, he would pick the tulips out of Joanie's garden and present them to Mom. But the best part, he called them roses!

With all of the nonsense before the party it was a miracle that Mom was surprised, but look at their faces - THEY'RE ACTUALLY SURPRISED!!

You can't have a party without a cake. Anna made an exquisite strawberry shortcake. The birthday girl managed to blow out all of the candles in one breath!

It was a team effort. This is only part of the team of course. Ken baked all morning, Suzanne and Thomas came, Andrew financed. Of course a big thank you goes out to Anna and Jean Voisard who provided a location for the party. We couldn't leave out all of the friends that came bearing gifts, food and flowers.

Farewell to an Amazing Man

Our family was blessed to include John Herbert Hemmings, known to his kindred as Jack or Papa. Papa left this world to pass to the next yesterday, Monday, March 6, 2006. He will be deeply missed. I love my Papa. He was an example to everyone. He was still volunteering at the CNIB and at Sunnybrook Hospital this past December.

Andrew and I spent an hour with Papa on Thursday, February 23 in St. Michael's hospital in Toronto. Although he could do barely more than whisper he kept the mood cheerful with his wit. He spoke with such positivity. He was a gentleman even under extreme adversity.

This picture was taken on Mom's birthday last year. I'm so glad that I have so many happy memories of my dear sweet Papa.