Big Brother Surprise Party And Bacon-Wrapped Water Chestnuts

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Special Invitation

Recently our family got a fun invitation to a surprise birthday party for my big brother, Craig, who lives in northeast Iowa. Mr. Farmer and I whole-heartedly accepted the invitation with enthusiasm as we would not want to miss out on watching my big brother’s jaw drop from shock and awe in celebration of his 70th birthday. So, off we went. And…what a great time we had. 🙂

Upon arrival, we were greeted by the official doorkeepers, Lynn and Gary, our sister-in-law Kay’s sister and husband. We chatted a bit, then they directed us to the reservation room where there were seats saved for all the crew to anxiously wait for the birthday boy.

Craig and Kay’s family is fairly large. And here they all came, along with extended family and friends. How fun to see the smiles and feel excitement in the air as we all awaited Craig and Kay’s arrival.

Brother Craig and Kay

Surprise!

Finally, Craig and Kay made their way into the room. We all yelled “SURPRISE”!! Craig was shocked to tears. He simply couldn’t believe that we were all there for him. What a wonderful night we shared with them, friends and loved ones! And what a good reminder to grab hold of the opportunities that come our way to show each other how special and loved they are. My brother smiled from ear to ear all evening as he made his way to every one, hugging and kissing and sharing his gratitude for all who came. Yes, I’m sure Craig will always remember his 70th birthday. Such a blessing.

Our food tasted fantastic! First, of course came the appetizers and boy were they yummy! I had never tasted bacon-wrapped water chestnuts before so I thought I’d give them a try here at home. These little delicacies make my mouth water just thinking about them. They are quite easy to make and keep well in the fridge. Hope you give them a try.

Back to the party. Craig and Kay’s kiddos presented them a slide show of Craig’s remarkable milestones through-out his years along with video messages from friends and family who couldn’t be present. We all laughed and choked up with all the heart-warming and fun sentiments. Simply beautiful!

Cake Time

Marcine, Craig and Kay’s lovely daughter-in-law, baked and decorated the most delectable birthday cake. I would’ve gladly had another piece. 🙂

Craig’s chocolate birthday cake with a raspberry crème filling.
Family….can’t beat em’.
Grands as Kay calls them

Yep, I was there. 🙂

The cousins are close!
Joe and Molly

Now for that yummy appetizer:

Bacon-Wrapped Water Chestnuts

Easy and delicious way to begin your meal or just have appetizers. This one can't be beat.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Serving Size 8

Ingredients

  • 1 lb. bacon
  • 1 8 oz. can whole water chestnuts
  • 1/2 C brown sugar
  • 1 T Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 T soy sauce
  • 1 C ketchup

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Cut bacon strips in half. Open and drain water chestnuts.
    Wrap each water chestnut in 1/2 strip bacon. Secure with a toothpick and place in baking dish. Bake for 20 minutes
    In the meantime, in a mixing bowl, mix together the brown sugar, worcestershire sauce, soy sauce and ketchup.
    Take wraps out of oven and drain off some grease. Pour sauce over the top and place into oven for another 30-40 minutes. Serve immediately.

When opportunities and invites come your way, be sure to say, “Yes!”

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5 Comments

    1. Hi Kathy,
      Thanks for reading our blog!
      Dubuque is where were were and Timmerman’s was the restaurant. Everything tasted delicious and the service was top-notch.
      Denise

  2. A wonderful family gathering! A special time for sure.

    We recently attended a reception at Timmermans in Dubuque. It is a great place to have a gathering and the food is great.
    Yes, the bacon wrapped water chestnuts are delicious. We ordered more!

    Fun place to dine, and the view, Oh My!

    Read yours and family blogs as well.

    Appreciate you sharing your faith. Thank you.

    Alice

  3. Denise,
    We recently were at Timmermans for a reception. Their food is delicious for sure.
    Yes, we had bacon wrapped water chestnuts. We ordered more!
    The view is great. Oh,my!

    Thank you for your blog. I’m so glad to have you share your faith.

    I grew up on a farm like yours in Boone County. I’m blessed to have grown up with the farm life.
    I will always be a country girl! 🙂
    Keep the farm life stories coming!

    Blessings!

    Alice

    1. Hi Alice!
      It’s great to hear from you…thanks for your response. Yes, Timmermans always satisfies our hunger pangs. Glad you tried the bacon-wrapped appetizers there and now you can create your own. 😊. Thanks for tuning in!
      Blessings💕. Denise

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