A Fond Farwell

A sweet Gold Watch for retirement

Getting ready for the party

Last weekend we were lucky to spend some time in Wisconsin with Ben's family to celebrate his father's retirement from Kimberly Clark after nearly 25 years of service. He will be missed, but he is sure to be busy these next few months, visiting with family and friends, and reacquainting himself with the fine art of relaxation.

Ben, Luke, Lauren, her boyfriend Matt, and I all surprised Tom last Friday but flying up for the weekend of his farwell party. He didn't think any of us could come since Lauren and Matt are busy with business school and Ben has only been at his new job for 2 months. But everyone made the necessary arrangements and Susan planned a great surprise for Tom in addition to a wonderful party to send him off is style. Their home was full of neighbors and coworkers who came to salute Tom and enjoy a night of good food and great music; one of their neighbors is in a Blue and Gray, a rocking blues band, that had everyone in a good mood and tapping their toes. Luke loved the music and was at my side when they struck their first chord. He immediately made his way through a maze of people and parked himself in the front row seat of the living room sofa. He was bobbing his head and trying to snap his fingers to the beat; he even got to play the egg shakers, nabbing one for a memento of the fun.

We heard glowing remarks about Tom and his leadership with the company throughout the night. Any of us would be so lucky to have such warm farewell from our jobs. Everyone had a great time and I'd stay Tom and Susan both left Wisconsin and KC on a very high note.

After packing up and finishing his last days in the office, Tom and Susan stopped in Knoxville for their first visit on the way down South. We had a great weather for walking around Market Square, having a leisurely lunch downtown and driving them around all the areas we've been looking for a home in. We have finally decided on a rental house for the time being, so the next time they or any friends and family visit, we promise we'll be out the extended-stay hotel. It's about time after 2 months!

Enjoy the photos and look for our new address coming very soon!