Surprise; Happy 35!

No this post isn't about a birthday; that's coming soon. This post comes with adoration for my father. I'm not a parent, but know that there are MANY moments that you glow with pride for your children. As an adult child, I wonder if those moments are more seldom to have for your parents. I'm happy to share with you a "top of the list" proudest moment of my father.

Unbeknownst to my father, his boss (Greg) had been planning a dual surprise anniversary party to celebrate my dad's 35 years of loyalty to ISEC, Inc. I'm pleased to announce that we were able to pull it off, keeping my dad in the dark about BOTH parties. It was well worth the sneaking around.

The festivities began by dad's office hosting a surprise lunch with the entire office staff, warehouse staff, and even a few installers. We were SO pleased that his boss was sure to invite family and significant others to attend as well, however, only Bryan, mom & I were able to attend this "first" party. While everyone crept into a conference room in back of the office, Dad was busy working with a "select" few colleagues on a project, with the notion that someone was picking up lunch at a local burger joint. When we were all ready, dad was lead to the conference room to pick up his lunch order. The look on his face was "priceless."

Dad was completely shocked. By the look on his face, we knew we had pulled it off. One down, one more to go. Greg set dad down in a chair while he began a beautiful speech beginning by providing a detailed account of dad's history with the company.
There were many things I didn't know, that only added to my admiration. Dad was the 13th employee of the company. Greg mentioned he found the original letter dad had sent with his request to be transferred. It was when he shared about our big move to California that dad REALLY chocked up. At the time of the move, the company had know idea that this Southern California division would eventually be the most successful division. Greg spoke of dad's integrity, loyalty, andwork ethic, which are just some of his most admirable qualities. We learned that only four others have been with ISEC, Inc for that long. We then toasted to my father with champagne (yep the real stuff). Dad was then presented with his anniversary bonus and a trophy.
Everyone of course wanted my dad to speak, and when someone spoke up asking "why has he stayed with the company for as long as he has" that got things rolling. Considering he was still in shock, choked up, and perhaps nervous, he returned with a memorable speech as well. He spoke about the company and how they have been kind, not only to him, but to the family. He shared that he has always said he would move on if he stopped learning, and that in all his years at ISEC, Inc., he has never stopped learning.

Then we all enjoyed lunch together. They were right on the money with a catered Greek lunch by Georges Greek Cafe, a favorite dining spot of ours.
While we finished up our lunch and dove into the bakavala, we all enjoyed laughs watching a specially made sideshow presentation. Dad had no idea that for at least a month mom, Bryan, and I had been gathering pictures for this show. I've waited to write this post in hopes that I could obtain the original video with sound, but unfortunately we have yet to receive it. The current disk, I couldn't get to up load. What I can share about the slideshow was that many of the words or beautiful quotes were written in both English and Greek. The slideshow was also arranged to different music for each time period. It was awesome. I hope to someday share it with you.

Although it was crunch time at the office, mom had told dad that he HAD to be home by 6pm because she had reservations for just the two of them to celebrate this momentous occasion.

Early that evening, while mom was waiting for dad to come home, Bryan, Christina, Jay & I met up at our place and carpooled to McCormic & Schmick's for the second surprise. Greg had planned yet another gathering, a more private and intimate party with the "big wigs" including: the VP, etc. We're grateful that dad remained oblivious to what was happening, otherwise he might have noticed our car, or the ISEC trucks, one of which mom said she passed on the way to the restaurant. To avoid arriving too early, mom took a "wrong turn" and stalled a little. Those of us at the restaurant enjoyed "adult" beverages and mingled with company executives, while keeping a lookout for the "man of the hour" or in this case "day."

Then the honored guest arrives
You can tell by his big smile, he was surprised ...again. After refreshment of drinks, we all sat down to a large table and began to check out the menu. We were all surprised to see that dad's name on the menu.

We had a spectacular four course dinner.

Christina trying Oysters for the first time. Slimy.
Jay shows her how it's done
Lobster anyone? I know Neil & Katherine would be takers. Jay, didn't your mother ever tell you NOT to play with your food?
Dad's waiting to be feed? You don't get THAT kind of royal treatment, even if your name is on the menu.
Dad was in a daze the entire day! He was completely taken by surprise. He was so amazed at all the work that had gone into the day and steps taken to keep everything in secret. He was honored to receive the respect and recognition from his colleagues. He was also touched that Greg made sure family was present at BOTH events; dad would say "my family's here."

Thanks ISEC, Inc. for honoring a man I too admire!