Dear Pennies & Pens,
A few months ago, my mother officially retired from teaching after 36 years. To celebrate, my siblings and I hosted a retirement party for her at Ivy Hills Country Club in my hometown of Cincinnati. Some of you may remember this post Press Pen: Ivy Hills Country Club that talks about Ivy Hills as they acted as a venue sponsor for the event.
Let me start this by saying the party was amazing! The party was Labor Day weekend on Sunday, September 6th. The party was fabulous because all of my parents friends were there as well as several family members.
In fact, my mom’s brother came all the way from Georgia with his 2 kids and 2 of my cousins who live in Houston came, as well as 2 of my dad’s brothers and his sister in law who also live in Georgia.
My aunt & uncle who live in Dayton, OH also came to the party as well. And I can’t forget my favorite cousin, Quincy who drove to Cincy from New York! Everyone really showed my mom some serious love and I couldn’t be more grateful.
We started the party with a mix and mingle portion, then guests were directed to the attached room where the food was. We served roasted potatoes, asparagus, chicken wings, and rolls.
We had a cash bar so guests were able to get a little sippy sip as they enjoyed the festivities. After everyone ate, we started the program. We invited some of my mom’s friends, former co-workers, and her sister to come up and speak.
My dad also came up and said a few words as did my sister and younger brother. Although my older brother couldn’t be there, he was there in spirit and love. I spoke as well because I wanted to emphasize to my mom why we wanted to do this party for her.
Not only did my mom teach for all those years, she also raised four kids and acted as a surrogate mother to all of our friends. She’s touched so many lives, and to this day, she’s always doing something for others. She’s truly the definition of a selfless person and I am so thankful that I have a mother like her.
Last but not least, my mother spoke by thanking everyone for coming to the party. She also thanked us for putting the event together. It was so great seeing everyone and I am so happy the event went off without a hitch!
It was truly an atmosphere of love and positivity. I would also like to thank my sister and brothers, it was so cool to come together and do this for our mom!
And there it is. de la Pen…All Pen Everything. With us, keeping it real never goes wrong.
