He didn't know the details of what was being planned but he had a clue it was coming. I've always talked about setting up a secret bank account to save up money for Mikes 40th birthday party. This way he would not know how much money that I spent or where I purchased things for the party. He likes to be in control of planning things, so it was fun to tease him that he was out of the loop and I was in charge.
I had so many people help me pull this party off. I couldn't have done it alone. Luckily, I have the best friends and family ever!
I had several people help decorate on the day of the party. My dad, Lisa Ward, Jen May, Dustin Ward and Dawn Zorer were there for the decorating. It turned out just how I had imagined in my mind.
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In the center of the table I had pieces of papers that said, I love Mike because.... and I remember when.... It was great to see what people wrote an we even read some out loud. |
My girls and I put together a slide show of Mike that played continuously throughout the party. Mckenzie made a c.d. with a bunch of fun songs from the past and present. My brother Dustin was my tech guy, he was in charge of the projector, laptop and music.
We set up a table of mike's memorabilia like his eagle scout award, different track shirts he wore, the stocking he came home from the hospital in, different awards that he won, and pictures of him as a baby.
I had a good friend of ours Tore Sundelin M.c. because I knew he was quick and witty and could make fun of Mike really well. The kids and I planned a fashion show where the kids wore different things that Mike has worn in his life.
Lexie modeled Mikes high school Letterman's jacket.
Calvin wore Mikes Scout shirt and sash.
Kenzie modeled Mikes infamous green sparkly speedo.
Kayla modeled Mikes tiger pants that he has worn to so many events.
Max sported Mikes favorite Beastie Boys t-shirt that is at least 20 years old and so thin you can see right through it.
Mike sat in the chair up front and took all the abuse. But I know he loved every minute of it. His kids had fun hamming it up just like their dad would have done.
The cake was perfect!! My dad picked it up from the bakery in Seattle. He got some funny looks from the guy who sold it to him. I knew those pictures of Mike in Mexico would come in handy one day.
Some of Mikes young men from Duvall, made a funny video for Mike.
Both of our families were in the same ward for many years, so they all know each other and are great friends. We both have great families. Most of our family was there.Mom and Dad Nelson
Mom and Dad Ward
Jeff and Jaimee and their kids
Dustin and Lisa and the boys
Trisha and her kids just happened to be in town from Utah
Karen and her kids
Katie, Jt and kids
Scott, Jessica and Alix
Tom, Lori and the girls. Uncle Paul
Mikes best friend and cousin Tom.
My cousin Nicole took the pictures for me so I could enjoy the party
So many of our friends who we love were there. We had friends from our old ward in Renton come. The Andelins and the Mafis.
The Faucett Boys are a few of Mikes young men from our old ward. He loves those boys so much!
A lot of friends from Duvall came to celebrate with us. The Mays, The Richeys, The Shaws, The Wheelers, The Sundelins, The Bransons, The Ross family, The Youngs, The Zores and a few Ashbys, Coomers, and Sheldons.
The Nelson and ward girls love to dance.
Mikes brother Jeff and nephew Indiana
Mike is the most amazing father, husband and friend. So many people love and respect him. I am so grateful that I married him almost 20 years ago. He has made my life a dream. As I was putting together all the pictures for the party it reminded me of so many fun things we have done with family and friends. Mike has planned some amazing vacations, camp outs and family reunions. I know that even though life is hard sometimes that Mike will always be there for me to make me laugh and not take things too seriously. I love Mike Nelson!
Mike + Andrea= Love
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