Upon my return from Hong Kong, I was informed that a monumental happening would soon be taking place. My great uncle Steve Kirkwood, the eldest member of the Ho Chunk Sioux tribe of which I am part, was celebrating his 95th Birthday.
Unknown relatives from all over the country were coming to this Historic Birthday/family gathering . . . I did not want to be left out. I booked my ticket to Detroit and drove with my family to the lush and expansive state of Wisconsin. It's funny how as you get older, time with your family goes from being taken for granted to something truly cherished (even with all of the well learned and not altogether positive dynamics). The drive was really fun - we are all coffee lovers, so the cup'o'joe stops were consistent . . . the van buzzed with caffeination and good conversation.
The Birthday gathering was a surprise party, which was a total success due in part to Steve's best friend Shorty keeping the secret so well. Uncle Steve was at a total loss for words and for about the first ten minutes and just stared around the room speechless noticing all of the familiar faces, which was quite moving.
My sister and brother in-law and their new baby boy Kaj, flew out from CA as well. We met a couple dozen relatives that I had never known before - it was wonderful and heart warming.
Here are some shots of the festivities:
The mastermind behind the big surprise/reunion, Steve's son Kent
Shorty escorts Steve into the banquet room.
SURPRISE!
. . . and the meet and greet begins . . .
Jeff and Mary with their kids (my cousins) Jonathan, Matt and Katie . . . and mother, Jean
. . . more friends and family!
Larry and Deborah
Billy and Patty
My dad, "Kirk" and "Chief's" son, Bill
My sister Laura and her husband Tej introduce baby Kaj to Steve
My mom, Pam and "Chief's" daughter, Maureen
Shannon and Ahren
Steve's Birthday "party"
This is a bonus picture from Wisconsin . . . It's my mom holding my new nephew Kaj (pronounced Kai). It was so beautiful I just had to add it.
It took a while to post this entry due to my trouble remembering all of the names of the great relatives that I met for the first time . . . "friends may come and go, but life begins and ends with family" - unknown
HAPPY BIRTHDAY STEVE KIRKWOOD!
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