Celebration in Walla Walla

We passed the jolly green giant in all its glory on a hillside yesterday on our way to Walla Walla.

Turns out the 300-foot tall giant has been on that hillside near Dayton, Wash., for several decades.

It first appeared because of an asparagus plant associated with the Green Giant brand of veggies, which actually had its start in Minnesota.  

Seems hard times hit when the asparagus operation moved to Peru, but the giant remained. 

There's more to the story, but it's Sunday morning, and I'm too lazy to do any more research.  

I just know that we may take a closer look and a picture or two when we pass by on our way home from Walla Walla where we attended a surprise 50th birthday party for my niece last night. 

I decided at almost the last minute to accompany Willie and Debbie to the party.  That decision came after Bill said he would take care of the animals. 

So, we took off about 11 a.m., and, with the exception of a couple of stops drove through rich Washington farm country and unrelenting rain for the next five hours. 

We kept imagining how pretty those fields and hills must be if the sun were shining. Maybe today. 

And, we had a fun time visiting.   

The visiting continued in earnest once a truly surprised Maureen walked through those doors to a ball room at the Marcus Whitman hotel to see a host of family and friends singing the birthday song. 

It was a great  and festive evening with a sumptuous dinner (including the best turkey I've ever tasted) and, of course, a lovely birthday cake. 

Plus, the event provided some family photo ops and some opportunities for guests to just have fun with the camera.  Some photos today by Jacob and one snapped by Kirsten.

The nice part for Maureen?  She doesn't have to feel too old just yet.  In order for her birthday surprise to be successful, the party was held BEFORE her 50th birthday. 

I'm sure there will be more visiting this morning before everyone heads off for their respective homes.

And, I'm also sure we'd all be happy with a lot less rain when we make the trip. 

It's been a fun few days seeing so many family members and doing some catching up on everyone's lives. 

Happy Sunday.