We had a lot of fun yesterday as my siblings gathered to host an open house for our dad who celebrates his 80th birthday this coming Tuesday. Dad’s brother, Bud, traveled to Des Moines with his entire brood. Friends past and present joined us in the community room at the folk’s apartment to enjoy a bite of cake and share in celebrating our dad. Thanks to everyone for coming out and making it a special day.

When these two get together there is always laughter.

The Vander Well clan

Dean and Jeanne Vander Well

Dad showing mom Madison’s text message with birthday wishes.

Bud and his brood.

Bud in his element, regaling people with his jokes and stories.

My family (L-R) me, Tim, Dad, Mom, Terry, Jody

Mom was excited to get Madison’s text wishes to Dad.

Mom enjoyed seeing lots of old friends.

This party’s this way.

Birthday cake from Jaarsma Bakery in Pella!

Wendy and Cousin Vicki

My folks. Dean and Jeanne Vander Well

Love this lady

Dean and Bud Vander Well

The Sibs (L-R) Tim, Terry, Jody, Tom

Me and my siblings (Terry, me, Jody, Tim)

Brothers, Dean and Bud (Herman) Vander Well

You don’t have to be crazy to be a Vander Well, but it helps.

Brothers Dean and Bud (Herman) Vander Well

Bud’s Crew (L-R: Donald, Vicki, Jane, Donna, Jeremy, Dan)

Those of our crew who could make it.

When the open house was over the family headed to Noah’s Ark Restaurant, an old family favorite, to share some time together. Happy Birthday, Deano.