Last Monday I stopped by Mom and Dad's to pick up canning jars. I casually asked how they planned to celebrate their 60th anniversary. Mom quickly confirmed (mostly directed to Dad) that the kids could not do anything because of COVID, so they weren't getting their hopes up. I realized immediately that their hopes were up and despite COVID, we needed to do something! I contacted Lori and offered to host a lunch. Lori got commitments from Deb and Russ to come to St George. Then everything just fell into place. I casually invited Mom and Dad for lunch and cards on Saturday, and I think there was a minimum of suspecting/hoping. Tony made a mouth-watering brisket, and I grilled veggies and made salad. Lori had the fun idea of 5 dozen roses and made a poster with 60 kisses. She sent them a beautiful album of our handwritten lovenotes, and a digital frame that flashes pictures.
When they arrived, Mom was characteristically observant and immediately noticed the table set for 12, not 7. I asked her to go get soda out of the pantry where everyone was hiding. Dad cried. It really was pure joy. After dinner we opened gifts then sadly said goodbye to Russ and Pam, who had to get back for work. We spent the afternoon playing pickleball and cards. It was the Mom and Dad's first time and they were so cute playing with their kids as partners. We ended the evening late at Mom and Dad's, setting up their digital picture frame and giving one more round of hugs.
It truly was a beautiful, heavenly day. I felt particular love and admiration for Dad yesterday and felt like his generosity and tenderness is some of the greatest I've known. He finds so much joy in other people's joy, especially Mom or the grandkids. I feel like Dad often directs conversation to me, even in a group. That special attention, and maybe even need for validation makes me feel connected to him, as well as a responsibility to be a good listener and validator.
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