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.

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

My folks. Dean and Jeanne Vander Well

Bud and his brood.

The Vander Well clan

Love this lady

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

When these two get together there is always laughter.

This party’s this way.

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

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

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

Dean and Bud Vander Well

Brothers Dean and Bud (Herman) Vander Well

Mom enjoyed seeing lots of old friends.

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

Birthday cake from Jaarsma Bakery in Pella!

Brothers, Dean and Bud (Herman) Vander Well

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

Dean and Jeanne Vander Well

Those of our crew who could make it.

Wendy and Cousin Vicki

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

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.