Celebrating Susanne

Last weekend I had the privilege of hosting a luncheon in honor of my sister Susanne. She was celebrating her 60th birthday as well as her retirement from teaching kindergarten. Her daughter Kristen and daughter-in-law Charis made all the food and came up with ideas which I helped implement. It was a wonderful day for a wonderful person.

The honoree...I think we can all agree she looks great for 60!

The tables were decorated in ivory, eggplant and green. They featured succulent plants, which Susanne has developed a love for.

Kristen put together photo displays which were set up around the room. These featured Susanne's granddaughters.

This table welcomed the guests.

This display showed family and special friends.

Of course the food was fabulous. Kristen made this delicious pomegranet punch for guests to enjoy as they arrived. I didn't get a picture of the lunch, but it featured fruit salad with mint dressing, Asian Chicken Pasta Salad and a roll. Yum!

Dessert was cupcakes from Frosting, Inc. Vanilla (Susanne's favorite), Lemon Raspberry and Red Velvet. They tasted as good as they looked.

Of course the best thing about a party are the people. Susanne's five granddaughters made an appearance at the start of the party. Here she is with all of them and her two children.

David is holding Elinor, Laurel, Susanne, Caroline, Charlotte, Anna and Kristen.

The guests included family, church friends, dinner club friends, teaching friends and lifelong friends.

Kristen and Charis filmed all of the granddaughters singing "If You're Happy and You Know It" and "Happy Birthday". The guest enjoyed it very much.

Everyone had a chance to introduce themselves and tell how they know Susanne. Many of them shared something special about their relationship with her. I think we all learned something new about her that day!

This is "The Group". These ladies have been friends since grade school. They get together twice a year for weekend trips and are so fortunate to have lifelong friendships.

From left to right: Sharon, Leslie, Susanne, Colleen, Cheryl, Judy and Kathy.

The hostesses with the guest of honor: Charis, Kristen, Susanne and Sharon.

It was such fun to help put this party on for my sister. She is special to so many people and I am so grateful that she is not only my sister, but also one of my best friends. Congratultions Susanne!