Family and friends gathered in Saskatoon at Hope Fellowship Church April 16 for a lunch to celebrate Elaine Milman's 80th birthday.
Elaine greeted everyone as they arrived and time was spent visiting. Everyone had the opportunity to view Elaine's family tree displayed on the wall. The family tree depicted the Partington/Banks family history. This was interesting as some branches went as far back as the 1500s. The family tree was researched and set up by Debbie Kennedy (daughter) and Tara Kennedy (granddaughter). Colleen Milman (daughter-in-law) and Jacey Milman (granddaughter) then took all the information and made the tree with all the names and dates on leaves. It made an interesting and memorable keepsake.
Everyone then enjoyed a roast beef dinner prepared by the family. The room was decorated with blue and white streamers and each table had a lovely bouquet of spring flowers.
After the meal, a program was put on by Elaine's children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Her three children, Colleen Wicks, Debbie Kennedy and Wayne Milman, were MCs for the program that began with a historical look back at events from 1931, the most important being Elaine's birth. This was followed by an amusing quiz, "how well do you know your kids?" Elaine had to answer a variety of questions about Wayne, Debbie and Colleen to determine which child was the correct answer. It was determined Colleen gave her the most grey hairs. Wayne, Colleen and Debbie sang their personalized version of M-O-T-H-E-R.
The grandchildren each related a memory or short story about their grandma. Nine out of the 10 grandchildren were able to be there. Wanda Smith, not able to attend, sent a message that was read by Colleen. A few other family members and friends also shared memories.
A slide show featured pictures depicting Elaine's life and family set to music - You Lift Me Up by Josh Grobin, Because You Love Me by Celine Dion and Mother of Mine by Haley Westrena. This was composed by Jacey Milman and elicited tears and laughter from those present.
All 14 of Elaine's great-grandchildren were present, ranging in age for 9 1/2 months to nine years old. The great-grandchildren all sang Happy Birthday to great-grandma and each presented her with a daffodil.
Elaine then cut her pansy decorated cake and the family served it up with ice cream and berries.
With the program over, Elaine thanked her family for their love and the work they put into arranging the lunch and program. She thanked all who attended to share the day with her.
