Monday, May 23, 2011

It's a NEW Beginning!

Hi there! I finally can say I am ready for the next chapter! What chapter? My husband's retirement party was this past weekend and he will work his last day this week! I have waited 32 years for this day! So, that is where I've been, working on details, assembling favors, table decorations, etc. It was a beautiful day, a humbling day, and the start of a new beginning for my hubby and I.

In the weeks leading up to the retirement party, my husband mentioned that he should get his picture taken one last time in his uniform! Of course, I couldn't have agreed more! He left the details up to me with a photographer our daughters used for their children. I worked on a date, planned the kid's outfits, accommodating all schedules, not an easy feat! Only to have my husband inform me on the Saturday prior to Mother's Day, he had turned in his uniform to headquarters and forgot about the appointment. Ugh...I spent the day rearranging schedules, calling our girls, frustrating in the very least. As my family watched me come unglued, fret in panic mode, and on the edge of tears, I succumbed to the fact this picture may not happen! Here's the rest of the story! Some time ago I shared pictures of our first grandchild, he is our only grandson and oh so very special. Above is one of the photos I took. You can see more HERE. And now look at this precious boy! His expressions mirror his Papa quite often! He's always on the go, smart as a whip, and such a joy to watch. Then you can just imagine how I sobbed when I was presented with a box of photos on Mother's Day filled with pictures of my hubby with his grandchildren. Our girls and their Dad pulled the surprise off big time! Everyone was in on it! Boy I think I've let my guard down in older age! The above photo is one of my favorites! What a way to start the next chapter, new beginnings stuffed with love of family filling our retirement days! Maybe a few trips now and again, and maybe, just maybe much more time in the studio!

Take good care my friends, see you tomorrow with a few pics of the favors I made for the party!

16 comments:

Unknown said...

What cute pics Barb. I can see why that pic is your favorite.

Jen T said...

Awww - what a touching story. Enjoy the next chapter!

Anonymous said...

Barb - what a wonderful photo - and he does so look like his Papa!!

Patti J said...

What a beautiful story! Thanks for sharing your story and your handsome men with us!

Joan Fricker said...

Congratulations Barb. I am so happy for you both. Great pictures and ones you will always cherish. hugs to you!
Joan

terriavidreader (IN-USA) said...

What a fabulous day for you! So glad it turned out well.

Gretchen Wilson said...

Barb, what a wonderful surprise that was. Having a son that is a policeman I can relate to the uniform. However he is a long way off from turning his in. Happy Retirement and enjoy that grandson, as I enjoy my two.

Kathy Martin said...

Hope you both enjoy you time together! I dream of the day my hubby retires and we get to travel and just spend time together!

Anonymous said...

Greetings from Buffalo, NY! Barb, your story and those pictures just brought tears to my eyes! What a great family you have! As always, thank you for sharing. debbie

Lynda Marquez said...

What a beautiful surprise for Mother's Day! Thank you for sharing it with us!

Conniecrafter said...

sweet pictures and so neat that they were able to surprise you

Lisa said...

First of all, thank you to both you AND your hubby for your service! And praise the Lord for his continued safety. Congratulations on his retirement. What a wonderful time. My DH is in the military and will be retiring in a few years as well. We so look forward to it. Loved your story about your precious family. Best wishes in your time together at this next part of the journey!

Marlena M. said...

So sweet and priceless!

Sharon Johnson said...

What fabulous photos and a GREAT surprise they played on you! Happy retirement to both of you! Best wishes!!!

Donna Baker said...

what a precious gift - you are blessed! that picture is priceless for sure. Happy Retirement to your DH!!

Nancy Jensen said...

Congratulations to you and your husband on his retirement from the police force. My husband has 21 years and is working toward his 32 as well. As a cop's wife I know it's every bit as much our career and sacrifices that help our husbands do their jobs well. (And don't they look great in their uniforms?)! I love the photo of your husband and grandson. Awesome!

Now what are you going to do with your husband? We have some friends who have retired from one agency and then work for another for a few years in order to collect two retirement checks... which is about what you need these days to get by, huh?

Congrats to you both again! (ps - I saw the party favors - you rock!)