Not everyone is able to have that said about them after living 90 years on this earth, but my daddy--Andrew George Lampiris is definitely a candidate for that phrase. November 18th started the very first day of his 91st year. We have been partying since last Friday when my sister, dad, mom and I made a treck back to the roots of my father's birthplace in Chicago IL. The time was spent visiting brothers-two still living of five, my dad being the patriarch. They in turn brought cousins, neices and nephews with them to my Uncle Fred's home where we celebrated into the late night. They had every kind of food known to man there.!!! Dad loved it all.
Saturday morning, we met dad's brother Eddie's daughter and listened to and told lots of fun memories over a very hearty breakfast. We arrived back in Muskegon about five and kept the party going on Sunday am with a huge cake to share with all the Calvary Cafe friends. Tuesday was dinner and dominoes at the Rudd Rough Inn--although the Inn has had quite a lovely upgrade, so we may have to change the name!!
More celebrations are planned for Thanksgiving and the day after. All of our children except Andy's family (his dear father-in-love, Garry is very ill with a cancer battle and they are needed there!) and three of Nan's children and their families will be coming to wind up the very incredible celebration.
My father was born to a Greek immigrant and a very young girl named Emma Lennon who had never been outside the city limits of Chicago. He has grown into one of finest, most wise men I have known. Is he perfect??--no, but he loves the Lord and he really loves his family. His family's welfare, and closeness to God mean more to him than anything on the this earth. He comes to life when the great grandchildren are around. I thank the Lord everyday for giving him to us for all these years--he has truly helped me know what is really important in life.
On the day after his birthday, I say Thank you for dear dad for
"A Life Well Lived!"
"A Life Well Lived!"
May the Lord give you many more healthy years!!
