A Triumphant Celebration of Milestones

As January unfolded, our family found itself immersed in a celebration of birthdays, each marking a significant chapter in the lives of family members. The celebratory trifecta commenced with my mom Joyce's 80th birthday on January 4, my sister Beth's 55th birthday on January 5 and our son Austin's 29th birthday on January 6. While all these birthdays were meaningful, my mom's octogenarian milestone took center stage, captivating our attention and offering another opportunity for cherished memories.

The anticipation leading up to my mom's 80th birthday was palpable. My sisters, recognizing the gravity of the occasion, had orchestrated plans to ensure a celebration befitting the incredible woman who had shaped our lives. Despite the geographical distances that sometimes separate us, the familial bonds that tie us together remain unbroken. My brother, fortunate enough to reside in the same town as my parents in Huntsville, Alabama, was an integral part of the impending festivities, effortlessly reinforcing the importance of togetherness. This gathering also included my dad (of course!), both sisters, my sister-in-law, my two nieces, Mimi and me.

As the date approached, I found myself grappling with conflicting emotions. Having just returned from the break, I was entrenched in my responsibilities at Saint Edward's, and the thought of leaving so soon after my return tugged at my sense of duty. However, clarity washed over me, dispelling any hesitation or doubts about my decision. The realization dawned upon me, even contemplating missing such a pivotal and joyous occasion would be foolish.

My mom's 80th birthday, a testament to a life richly lived, beckoned family members to gather and commemorate the woman who had been the steadfast anchor of our family. The wisdom, love and resilience she had exuded throughout the years deserved more than a passing acknowledgment; it warranted a celebration that mirrored the magnitude of her impact on our lives.

The reunion of siblings, spanning different ages and life stages, promised a rare and cherished opportunity for shared laughter, reminiscent storytelling and the creation of new memories.

The celebration was a testament to our love and appreciation for our matriarch. Surrounded by family, my mom basked in the warmth of affection, her eyes reflecting the years of love, joy and challenges that had shaped her into the remarkable individual she is. We laughed, recalled funny stories of growing up, and ate (we ate a lot!).

In retrospect, prioritizing family over professional commitments was not a choice at all. It was an affirmation of the enduring importance of family, an acknowledgment that certain moments in life transcend schedules and routines. The celebration of my mom's 80th birthday underscored the significance of pausing, reflecting and reveling in the shared experiences that bind us together as a family.

We look forward to celebrating Dad's 90th birthday on November 4, 2032!

Don’t ever let work get in the way of family. Family first! I love you, Mom and Dad, and thank you for a beautiful weekend!

I look forward to seeing you around campus!

Stuart