Happy Retirement!

My dad has been counting down the days until his 70th birthday because that is when he would retire.  The people he works with threw him a surprise party to celebrate. He was surprised when he walked in!

I saw the sash on the table and I couldn't wait to see dad wear it!  He looks good.

Everyone wanted to tell us how wonderful he is and how much they are going to miss him. 

Dad has always had an amazing work ethic.  He took pride in working hard for his family and being able to make it so mom could be home with us.  I remember how hard it was when SPS Technologies went out of business and he was out of work for over a year.  I learned a lot from watching my parents adjust plans when that curveball was thrown at them.  It didn't seem fair that such a hard working, great employee was out of work for so long.  Dad didn't focus on that though, he stayed positive and kept applying.  One of the most touching things to me was seeing my dad going to work at night at a janitorial job because he wanted to do something.  I guarantee that job was not easy for him, the hours were so hard, but he didn't complain and he went and worked hard every night.  When he got his job at CHC he worked that janitorial job for two more weeks because he wanted to make sure he gave notice.  We were all so happy when he got his job, I can only imagine how long and stressful that was for my parents. 

 Then I remember how hard the new job was.  He didn't dwell on it, but he struggled learning the new industry and all of the technology. I know he spent hours studying and learning new programs. 

Of course he settled into his job just fine and did amazing things and helped lots of people.  The next curveball game when Jen died and mom and dad decided to raise Dante and Alexys.  This sacrifice totally altered their future plans.  Again, dad didn't dwell on it, he is good at dealing with things and then moving on. My heart has broke for my parents over the years as I have watched their struggle with raising kids when all they wanted to be was grandparents.  I hated seeing my dad working such long hours, especially when we all know he would have been retired and they would be on a mission right now.  He stuck with it though.  They did their research and felt like waiting until dad was 70-years-old was the best thing for them financially.  They both sacrificed a lot so that dad could work long hours.  I'm proud of the legacy of hard work and perseverance that I come from.  Dad has worked hard all his life.  He has never been afraid of challenges or hard work.  This really is something to celebrate, mom and dad I'm proud of both of you and lucky to be your daughter.