Today we had a surprise 80th birthday party for mom. To top it off her twin brother and older brother showed up. My cousin from her in town showed up as well. It was a great time and everyone ate, sat and talked for a couple of hours.

This is the first surprise party we’ve ever thrown and it’s the first mom has ever had. I was super pleased to see my uncle Jack, who was one of the people my son was named after. Jack had such a big influence on my life. Back in 1987 he picked up mom and myself for a St. Louis trip. I’d never been far from my cowtown before, so going to the city was a culture shock. We went to a ballgame, up in the Arch, on the floating McDonald’s, to Union Station, and finally to a Billy Joel concert. I mean I still love the Cardinals, Billy Joel and St Louis to this day. I attribute part of my personality to trying to act like Jack; he’s basically a male version of mom. I was a Cubs fan before the trip changed me to a die hard Cardinals fan. That fact alone makes him an MVP to me lol.

I’m the youngest of 30-some Baer grandchildren. Me and my cousin are the only remaining ones still living in the original hometown. This doesn’t bother me though as I’ve lived enough places and seen enough of the country to realize that you basically grow where you are planted.

It took everyone for rides in the Tesla. Between the crazy acceleration and crazy fart noises I bet I’ve sold two of their cars.

Jack (my son) wasn’t here as today was the track and field sectional meet in Williamsville. He got home about 20 minutes after everyone took off. I would still like him to meet my relatives and get to know them a little bit because who knows when the next time is the last time. I really need to set up some sort of formal family reunion, like the one’s I used to go to when I was real little. It’s sad that I only see these people nowadays during a funeral. Growing up we hardly ever saw or spoke to relatives because dad liked to stay home. Now as I get older I feel like starting some connections to my cousins. I’m sure as the years go by I’ll care more and more about people and relationships and less about immediate problems and material items.