In November, every decade, we celebrate three milestone birthdays within a two-day period: my husband Nathan, my mom, and Nathan’s grandfather.  

This year, they were 40, 70, and 90! It made for a busy and happy November, with a series of celebrations in both Illinois and Arizona with our family and friends. 

For my mom’s party in Arizona, we went with a succulent theme, and I set up a photo booth, which proved to be a hit! Some favorites are shown here. 

Mom was just glowing to have so many friends and family in her new home to celebrate, which made my heart smile. Everyone had a blast, especially my nephew Wesley, who was fascinated by my flash and made this face every time it popped (below, top right):

For Nathan’s, we used the production space inside Little Beaver Brewery in Bloomington, since he’s a big beer guy (well, now that he’s the ripe age of 40, he’s not as much as a beer guy as a couple decades ago…ya know).

When planning, I fully embraced the Beer-Party-Theme, with an emphasis on “local.” I brought in memorabilia from home (growlers, coasters, bottle caps, a US Brewery map, pint glasses, etc.), along with decor and beer-flavored cupcakes from Sugar Mama Bakery in Normal.  

It happened to be an Ugly Sweater Night at the Brewery’s taproom, so we decided to embrace that, as well. (Well, most of us.) That made a fun party even more hilarious. 

We served pizza and Korean BBQ wings from Anju Above in Bloomington, and naturally, drank Little Beaver’s unique beers, including their special release for the holiday coincidentally named “Holly Jolly White Peppermint Stout” (let’s pretend it was named after me).

While planning the event for Nathan and collecting old photos to hang, I was reminded again that he’s the coolest, most well-rounded person I know, and I still think I’m the luckiest girl ever. Celebrating him was a total joy! I am blessed. I hope you are equally lucky in love this holiday season.

Eat and drink local! – Holly