Birthday thanks & a special visit

I want to extend my thanks to all my friends and family who made my 60th birthday (on Sept. 12) so special with text messages, emails, Facebook greetings, video messages, and so many birthday cards!

My wonderful and amazing wife worked behind-the-scenes to work with many of you to send me birthday cards and video greetings. I was extremely surprised by all the love that was shared by many of you. Some of you even sent multiple birthday cards! Your thoughts and words meant the world to me. I thank you from the bottom of my heart.

My siblings also surprised me with the zoom birthday call. It was special to see my siblings, and to talk story with them even if it was for a short time.

My in-laws, Bruce and Dianne, surprised me with my favorite meal that my mother-in-law makes, chicken divan, and a chocolate cake.

My work colleagues surprised me at work with a surprise birthday pie celebration. I’ve been telling my staff for the last seven years that I wanted a cherry pie for my birthday, and I finally got my cherry pie! Other staff members made a variety of other pies, and the entire staff joined to me and enjoying dessert early in the morning.

My birthday was made extra special with the visit of my son, Ian, and his lovely wife Nephtys, and my two youngest grandkids. Thiago who just turned three, was a hoot and was by companion as I sat in my recliner at home. He sat next to me with the little table and played and talked to me, and boy can he talk!

I also got to meet my seven month old granddaughter, Thea Joey, for the first time. She has a beautiful personality, and she was full of smiles, giggles, and curiosity.

They were able to visit for a week, and joined me for brunch before they left the night of my birthday.

Turning 60 is certainly a milestone birthday, but as I reflect on my future, however short it might be, I am grateful to have so many wonderful friends and family who have shown their love and aloha to me in so many wonderful ways. I love each of you very much.

Here’s to another trip around the sun!