After Charlotte's 1st birthday party two springs ago, dad mentioned to Melissa that she could throw him a party any time and that his 60th birthday would be coming pretty soon. Melissa, in her mind said, "challenge accepted," and so on Saturday it all came together. After planning for months we were able to put together a day to celebrate six decades of Dick Hess. We chose to theme the party around Cincinnati and baseball, two of dad's favorite things. We even made a station on pandora, that played his favorite music all afternoon. It was a surprise party and we did our best, but I think dad was more surprised to see some of the people who showed up to honor him and celebrate the day. Melissa did a great job pulling it all together. We also had lot of help from her parents, letting us use their home to host the party as well. Family members chipped in on food and games and as you can see by the pictures, it was just a great day! This first shot gives you an idea of Melissa's vision for the party. It pretty much sums it all up.
We even dressed Oliver up to go along with the theme. He is loving getting to know his family in Ohio.
There were games for big kids and little kids as well.
Dad's sister, Susan help put together 10 questions about dad to test all of our knowledge about him. The winners took home a box of cracker jacks. How appropriate.
Here is dad pretty surprised to see his boss from work, who lives on the west coast.
Sorry, just another picture of Ollie.
Melissa made a banner that said, "welcome to the big leagues." It was the theme for the party.
Love this picture of Melissa, Charlotte and her cousin, Honor.
The birthday boy getting ready to blow out all 60 candles.
He enlisted mom and his two granddaughters to help out.
Charlotte and Honor helping themselves to a slice of cake and some ice cream.
And yes, we did serve it in miniature baseball helmets, just like the ones you get at the stadium.
We also had everybody take a quick polaroid with fun props so that they could make a page in a scrapbook for dad. It will be a great way to go back and remember this day.
Charlotte's first swig of an IBC root beer. She said, "ooooh, that's cold."
Opening some of his presents...
Love this picture of the family.
We were all pretty tired after the party as you can see.
Happy birthday dad! You are now receiving the reward from all of your hard work and discipline. The best is yet to come!
-jay