Spring Cookout

Over the weekend, we went down to Mom and Dad's house for a spring cookout/block party, hosted by Dad.  It was a beautiful evening with perfect weather.  As always, Mom and Dad's house looked gorgeous, and flowers were in full bloom everywhere you looked.

                                     

Dad did a great job putting together a wonderful cookout.  He bought balloons to add to the festive feel. He had tables and chairs set up, and of course, tons of food.  Neighbors brought chairs, desserts, barbeque, and in some cases, they brought their dogs to share in the fun.

                                     

Everyone was in good spirits and busy conversing with one another.  Dad loved that part.  He said, "It's so important for everyone to get out and talk to each other once in a while, and get to know each other.  It makes for a neighborhood where people are friendly, they know each other, and they are willing to help each other out."

Lots of people told me, "We are so lucky to have your dad here!" And talked about how amazing he is, how much he is involved with. I heard, "Is there anything he doesn't do?" and "He's getting younger all the time--how does he do it?"

Everyone had beautiful yards there.  This person had a lovely clematis blooming all over their mailbox.

The food was a big hit.  Barbeque ribs and beef, hamburgers and hot dogs, and lots of fun home-made side dishes and desserts.

The host and hostess!

Marty and Benny enjoy some dinner.

The young man "down the street" is in culinary school, studying to be a chef, made these cookies.  Everyone raved about them!

Dad had thoughtfully brought balloons and kites and candy for the kids. The young children had such a blast with those balloons! It was not windy enough for kites, but the kid's got to take them home for another day. He also brought supplies to make s'mores, and THAT was a big hit. Everyone loved the process of toasting the marshmallows and making the smores. (Even if they couldn't quite finish them afterwards. We were all very full!)

Great job, Mom and Dad, and we look forward to it next year!