In 2004, we celebrated a truly special milestone: my beloved wife Jennifer’s 50th birthday! To mark the occasion, we rented the historic McMenamins Kennedy School and hosted a lively sock-hop themed party that brought together family and friends for an unforgettable evening. The ambiance of the Kennedy School was perfect for the retro theme, with guests dressed in poodle skirts, leather jackets, and other 1950s-inspired attire. The venue was beautifully decorated with colorful streamers, vinyl records, and diner-style touches that set the stage for a night of dancing, laughter, and celebration. One of the most memorable moments came when Jennifer’s cousin Mandy surprised her by arranging for her mother, Terry, and aunt, Nancy, to make an unexpected appearance. Their arrival was met with tears of joy and heartfelt embraces, making the evening even more meaningful.

As the night unfolded, everyone enjoyed delicious food and drinks while dancing to classic hits from the sock-hop era. The energy was infectious as guests shared stories, created new memories, and celebrated Jennifer’s milestone together. Many of us chose to stay overnight at the Kennedy School, where the old classrooms had been thoughtfully converted into charming hotel rooms. These unique accommodations added a nostalgic touch to an already magical evening, allowing us to reminisce about school days while enjoying modern comforts.

Jennifer’s 50th birthday party was truly a heartfelt reunion filled with love and laughter—a celebration we’ll treasure for years to come!