Happy 80th Birthday Grandma!

My Grandma Arlene is the most amazing woman!
There are so many things I love about my Grandma. When I was younger we would spend the night at Grandma's almost every weekend and we would have so much fun playing with her toys and recording messages on tapes. We were always making crafts and doing projects. I will always be thankful to my grandma for teaching me to serve others. She is the most generous, caring person who would give you the shirt off her back if needs be. We LOVE her and are so happy that she is with us and GOING STRONG!!! She seems so young, I can't believe she is 80! She acts younger than most people half her age, always running around playing with kids. She will always play games with them and keeps herself very active! My kids adore her and love spending time with her. I am thankful that they are building memories with her that they will cherish as much as I have.

Thursday was her 80th Birthday and for months my cousins and I have been planning a surprise party in her honor. It was so much fun to see her just beaming with joy!
We met at the church for dinner and games (bunco of course!) with the immediate family and then extended family and friends were invited to an open house from 7-8:30. We had a good turnout and my Grandma was so surprised when additional people started showing up.

My aunt Peggy coordinated and put together this amazing quilt. We each did a square for our family and then for each great-grandchild. It turned out so cute!

Our family squareKatie's squareBrielle's square
We had all brought displays of things that reminded us of Grandma or things Grandma has made over the years. There was of course lots of block trees, a Mr and Mrs Santa Clause, the Little's dollhouse. We played Bunco which is Grandma's favorite game! and even the boys and kids played.We also did a chipmunk performance which is what we did at every family Christmas party when we were kids. In this photo is Austin, Kenelle, Kaycie, and Kelcie

It was really a fun night and I hope Grandma realizes how much we all LOVE and appreciate her. Happy Birthday Grandma!!! Lots of hugs and kisses!