Grandpa's Retirement Party

We hopped on a plane last week and flew out to see Grandpa and Mema for Grandpa's birthday and retirement party! It was a whirlwind of a weekend but totally worth it to be with them for the special celebration! 

Macy was excited for her own seat on the plane! 

Family Time 

The Speeches 

Justin gave a wonderful speech on his dad in front of many friends and family members. He did a great job honoring Don and used character words to describe his dad as 

-Generous

-Consistent

-Positive

-Patient 

-Present

-Encouraging 

It was a fun afternoon, seeing all of the people that have come into Don's life in one way or another and honoring his career in banking. Emma did a great job in setting up the event at the White Mule Winery and inviting a slew of guests! 

Macy gave Grandpa huge hugs! 

Don's brother, Jim, also had some kind words to share about Don. 

 

Kathy's brother Charlie also shared about Don. 

More Pictures of Guests for Grandpa to See 

Presents and Sleepover at the White Mule 

(Favorite new picture of Grandpa and Macklin.) 

Missouri got so much snow while we were there! So fun! 

Toasts to Grandpa! 

Macy helping Grandpa open his gifts. 

Here is a typical picture of my kids to leave on...Macklin shooting something, Macy with her Taggie and fingers in her mouth...just saying. 

Christmas Time with Grandpa and Mema

Another great visit we had took place at Grandpa and Mema's house. There is so much to explore at their house between Justin's old toys in the basement and the big "toys" in the garage, the kids love being there! 

Christmas Eve Fun

 

Schlottach Christmas 

These boys have so much fun together! 

Grandpa gets the "famous" drink! 

Doesn't everyone do a piñata for Christmas? Instead of a cousin gift exchange, we decided to stuff little goodies (My Little Pony minis and Monster Trucks) into a piñata and let the kids have a fun little experience. It was a way bigger hit than any of us predicted and I think it is our new annual tradition! 

Brandt Christmas 

How cute are these girls???

Update:

These are now hard pictures to look at as our dear Earl passed away on January 3rd. He was a multi-talented man that offered so many fun stories and delicious meals to our family events. He was a joy to be around and had a smile that made you melt. We were so heart broken to hear the news of his heart attack and our thoughts and prayers are with his wife Joanie and the rest of Justin's family. It was hard to not be around you all to celebrate his life. We will cherish our memories of him, especially this Christmas as we explored his shed and watched the joy on his face as the kids played in his Jeep. To an incredible man that will be greatly missed - cheers!