Sunday, January 27, 2008

Happy Birthday, Dad!

My dad's birthday was this past week. Happy Birthday, Dad!

I've spent most of my weekend off staying in the hospital with a friend who had major back surgery, but I did break away a few times to see my family, including a dinner at our favorite steakhouse, Mancini's, in St. Paul. This is one of my dad's favorite restaurants and since we've been talking about eating there for a while, it seemed fitting for his birthday.



Now, if you've ever met my dad, you could attest to the fact that he's a pretty quiet, gentle man who wouldn't want to draw attention to himself. This picture looks like the exact opposite! Let me explain...

This week is the St. Paul Winter Carnival, which is the nations oldest and largest winter festival. It started back in 1886 and has been a huge St. Paul tradition since then. There are lots of aspects to the carnival, including a royal court and almost an anti-court. There is a "good" king -King of the Winds, and also an "enemy" of the carnival -the Fire King, Volcanus Rex. There is the Queen of the Northlands, and also Klondike Kate. Well, the picture of my dad was taken at Mancini's when we were joined by the Vulcans and all the Klondike Kate's of years past. Two of them came over and helped deliver a birthday cake and sang for my dad! He was a good sport about it!

If you ever have the chance to eat at Mancini's, go for it! You might have to wait a while, but the amazing steak and fun atmosphere is worth it! And, if you can be there during the Winter Carnival, you might be in for an exciting evening!

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I decided not to leave you with just that picture of my dad for his birthday, but thought I'd throw in a few other favorites...






I really do have the best dad in the world! He's the most patient person I know, he'd do anything for anyone (proven time and time again), he's smart, has a funny sense of humor (it often comes out when you least expect it!), and loves his family more than anything. Thanks, Dad, for being an amazing example of what a husband and father should be!

5 comments:

Candis Berge said...

Oh that picture really was great!

Happy Birthday Doug!!

Zowie.

Jim and Marilyn said...

Happy Birthday Doug! I only wish that you had taken a video of the cake presentation, Kari! I would have loved to see your dad's expression when those ladies walked up! (Also your mom's!)

Leingang Family said...

What a fun birthday! Thanks for sharing the pictures. I love the one of him working at the table with David in his arms. That is so cute!

Anonymous said...

Wow, you weren't kidding! That picture is too funny. Your post made me really miss your family...happy birthday Doug!

timmyjimi said...

That's a hilarious shot! You're right about your dad - he really is a great person. Your family has been exceptionally generous to me the few times I have been through the Midwest. And Doug's sense of humor... nothing beats it! :)