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| My mother-in-law, Jane |
On April 20th we celebrated Jane's birthday with a party at Pat and Ann's cabin. Everyone who could make it was there, including Susan and Jay, who surprised her by arriving a day early from Kentucky.
As always with these Hurlburt gatherings, there was a house-full, with plenty of delicious potluck food to enjoy.
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| Plenty of cakes to choose from! |
The highlight is seeing how much all the grandchildren and great-grandchildren have grown, and watching them interact with each other.
As I post pictures from the party, I'd like to say a few words about my wonderful mother-in-law!
Hard to believe, but I've known Jane for about 20 years now. Her warmth, friendliness, and interest in other people made it easy to get to know her. I don't think anyone would argue if I said she's the heart of her family, and not just those related to her... she has lots of friends in the community and has been like a second mom to her daughters-in-law.
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| Susan holding Jessica's son Cooper |
I've learned a lot from her over the years, including how to enjoy having people over and how to keep a nice home. From her I learned to plan ahead, set the table with some flair, and cook plenty of food... though once the people arrive, take time to visit! The guests should be your focus. Make them feel comfortable and welcome.
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| Blythe, Brooke, Audrey, Lauren, and Leila |
I've also learned from her the importance of celebrating holidays and remembering loved one's birthdays and anniversaries (my mom taught me that too). I never get tired of looking around her house at the pictures on the wall and how she has things arranged, because she always changes things and knows how to make personal and meaningful displays.
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| Joe made this flag holder for Grandpa's funeral flag |
She remains active in her community, volunteering at her church and helping out with food at funerals.
She is a prolific crafter. It would be interesting to pile together all the blankets she's made, all the hats, scarves, mittens, sweaters and baby quilts she's knitted, and all the children's and doll clothes she's sewn. It would be impressive, but it's not possible-- because she gives all those wonderful hand-made creations away!
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| Susan and Jay look fresh, even after their long drive |
She has insight into other people, including her children. She knows her children aren't perfect and sees them realistically, but she loves them unconditionally and sees them and their accomplishments in the best possible light. She even has that kind of open heart for daughters-in-law, like me!
She loves children, and has babysat many, many little ones over the years. She knows how to provide a safe and loving environment.
She does fun things, like going to shows in the cities, going on historic home tours, travelling as her health allows, and visiting other people's homes.
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| Jane made this apron for Leila |
She takes care of herself! She tries to be healthful and always made sure her and Bud looked nice in crisply ironed clothes (I'm sure she did that for her kids when they were little, too). Her and Bud always put their best foot forward in public and I know their example has had me trying a little harder to have a neat appearance at family events...
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| Jill threw a wonderful shower |
The day after Jane's party we gathered at Phil and Jill's house for Susan's wedding shower.
The food was delicious! And Susan received many wonderful presents for her future married life with Jay, including pieces of fiesta-ware she'd selected as their table setting.
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| Pat, Jane, and Dorothy |
The shower guests were mostly Hurlburts, but Jane's sisters Pat and Dorothy also attended, as did Susan's mother and some of her family.
While Susan was in town we did a cake testing (guests are in for a treat-!) and went over some last-minute details for the wedding. Hard to believe it's less than two months away... yikes...
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| Susan opening presents |
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| Malia's gorgeous hair-! |
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| Kristen, put down the wine |
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| Great-Uncle Jon and Cooper |
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| Lindsay, Jonathan, Jack, Susan, and Logan |
Jack stayed overnight at our house this weekend, so here's a few pics from that:
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| Grandma's little helper (the TV) |
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| Outside by the playhouse |
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| Jack wearing boots! |
Jon's brother Eric and Jodi remarried last week, and this weekend we attended a reception they held for family and friends at their bar in Arnold:
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| Eric and Jodi |
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| Alec, Seth, and Michael |
To conclude, news about Susan! She's been competing in a "Biggest Loser" weight loss challenge at work, and recently won the contest. She "gained" $300 by losing 60 pounds since last summer. She did it by watching what she ate and exercising twice a day. It was a lot of hard work, but look at the results. We're so proud of all her other accomplishments, this is just icing on the cake. The best part is that she is a wonderful, smart person. Way to go, Susan!!
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