My 60th Birthday!!!

OK not only did I finally pull the pin and "RETIRE" but I planned my retirement celebration on my 60th birthday too!!!  I decided a while ago that I just may never get married so this was going to be my big shebang - retirement and a birthday celebration all in one!!!  So I worked on a guest list for both - one for the formal retirement in the afternoon and a second casual sit down supper in the evening.  It was kinda hard to figure out who to invite as I was restricted to a number both budget and location wise - but it too worked out.  There were 41 invited and 39 actually made it - WOW!!!  For this evening event I just wanted a dinner that was like a party and requested no gifts - just fun!!!

So with Yvonne and John's arrival on Saturday, Eileen and Bruce had invited them and myself over Sunday for supper which was AWESOME and entertaining and I totally forgot to pull out the camera to record it!!!  DUH!!!  I was flying so high I just didn't think of it.  And then Eileen brought out the ice cream cake and they sang to me - naturally me in tears!!!  I love them dearly!!!

Then Monday morning I met Yvonne and John for breakfast at Cora's and boy that was a smart move.  It was a very good choice of place and decision as I didn't get to eat until later that evening - I was just running on extra adrenaline and didn't stop for lunch.  LOL!  We had a leisurely meal and a pleasant visit along with a couple of gifts too!

After the formal reception I had arranged for a Limousine Service to pick Barb and myself up in a Towne Car (not the stretch) and deliver us to the supper event and later pick us up and take us both home.  I think that was the easiest decision I made that night and very thankful for it.  The car was very clean and fresh smelling - actually leather scented - not like regular taxis - well worth the expense (will do so for my midnight arrival from my trip too).

First off Thank You to the Pony Corral @ 1700 Pembina Hwy for accommodating my requests and for the AWESOME service provided.  And to Yvonne for the lovely Irish Blessing to start us off.  The two waitresses were kept busy from start to finish and I've heard nothing but positive comments on the food, service and location - so I was very pleased.

It was also great to have Barb and others assist to help get the tables dressed with the special dinner menus they provided and the trivia quiz on "How Well Do You Know Rose Anne" laminated placemats prepared by coworker Karen and her summer student Raegan.  It sure kept everyone entertained and chatting amongst themselves trying to figure it out.  And naturally having Tom run the Tree of Life presentation he made for me during dinner - just lovely!

 

My guests from both ends of the long table.

 

Friends:  Darlene, Shirley, John and Yvonne, and Bruce and Angela

 

Meaghan and John - Jan, Michelle and Wally

Family:  Pat, Randy, Byran, Amanda and Justin;

Trevor and Janine

Tommy T and June

From what I could tell the meal choices I made were well received and enjoyed along with some cheers too!  It was awesome to grab time here and there with all present and also hear how friends and family chatted with virtual strangers next to them.  Lovely!

All I can say is my family and friends don't listen to me very well!!!  LOL!  See I was not only surrounded with their hugs and well wishes but many more gifts too!  Some were noted for my trip, so will have to ensure that is put into the Holiday account.  The other point I know is that I was flying high all day and even with the helium balloon bursting later at night didn't even burst my bubble.  I was still going strong Tuesday at work but then crashed later that evening.  But not for long!  Yes this was one heck of a birthday celebration!!!  Then naturally Barb and I toasted my retirement on my last day!

Various personal gifts received from family and friends!

My last day of work plus my only duplicate card from all received.

Yes we were commiserating together!!!