I'm So Happy & Proud

I had a really neat kind of day today. James went to my mom's before his morning nap so that Ryan and I could get all dressed up in "business casual" attire. I donned black nylons, black dress pants, a black sweater with a faux dress shirt under it in gold/pink/white, and my NEW black heels from Aldo. I straightened my hair - and put on a necklace, AND dangly earrings. I did my makeup. I sprayed on a little eau de "Black Raspberry and Vanilla". I was looking good.

Ryan sported a silver/grey dress shirt, and a black suit. He gelled his hair. He dabbed on a little Aqua Velva. He looked smashing!

So off we went to the Winnipeg Convention Centre for the National Philantropy Day Awards Luncheon. We were invited into the "Guests of Honor" lounge where hors d'oeurves and beverages were served. We caroused with some high-flutin' Manitobans, such as a former Mayor of Winnipeg, Gail Asper, newpaper columnists, business people, sponsors and photographers. It was fun!

After all the carousing, we were escorted into the dining room - at which time I ran into a friend of ours who works at Inner City Youth Alive (an organization that works to get inner city kids off the streets). We chatted for a while, and it was a pleasant conversation. We all headed into the dining room, and saw a table of Ryan's relatives. We said our hellos, but were soon asked to take our seats. We headed up to table #4.

At our table was Mr. John Buhler (of Buhler Industries) and his wife. There was a lady who I can't remember the name of, and a man from Wawanesa Insurance. Also at our table was Mr. Lewis Tropel (the grandson to Ben Moss) (yes, the jeweller), and his mother, and last but not least - my mother and father in law, the guests of honor.

We listened to some speeches and as usual, I was moved. I like to hear about the successes (and failures) of others - and then see them make something of it. I was inspired. After lunch, which was chicken, slivered mixed veggies and baby potatoes, the awards were given.

The first introduction made tears well up in my eyes. The MC spoke of a humble, quiet couple who has given to the community in countless ways. Colleagues and family had only wonderful things to say about them. They were good people. Blessed people. Sharing people. These were my parents in law. I was so proud of them as they went to the front to be awarded the National Philanthrophy Day "Outstanding Philanthropists" Award. It was hard for me to hold back the tears as my father in law spoke. His words were few, but profound as he said, "I have a beautiful wife, two wonderful sons who married beautiful wives, and four incredible grandchildren. If I didn't do it for anyone else, I would do it for them".

Congratulations Mom and Dad - we are VERY proud of you!