Caden's Cause

This was a wonderful way to kick off the month, celebrating the birth of our beloved Caden for what would have been his 2nd birthday. Julie & Timi put their heart and soul into this project and seeing all the people turn out for this event is evidence of how much we love Caden.

The sun was shining like it was the middle of June instead of the first of April and the Lookout Bar was the perfect setting. The drive through the residential houses was a bit confusing but we eventually got there As one that has never attended a benefit in any way, shape or form, I wasn't sure what to expect, but a huge play set in the backyard of a bar and grill wasn't on list either. With the gorgeous weather, which was certainly sent from Heaven above, the kids were able to be kids and the outdoor patio was able to accommodate the hundreds of people that turned out. Yes, I said HUNDREDS. From what I have heard lately the turn out was around 430 people in attendance and ticket sales.

I am not sure if the turn out was expected for a first time event but the Lookout Bar did a wonderful job at accompanying all of the people that walked through. The food was delicious even if the line extended through the place (which just emphasized the success of the event) and the everyday patrons of the place were in for a shock when they came for their happy hour specials and saw the line of cars that extended down the street for as far as your eyes could see. I even got to talk to a few people in the parking lot looking for a spot to park.

Tony wasn't in the mood to leave the event either, but as the night wore on his pleasant disposition went down hill so my parents took them away in their horse drawn Toyota.

The silent auction ended with a frenzy of last minute bids and then the chaos ensued with the closing out of the event. It was amazing to see everyone come together to make this event great and to see all the items on display that were donated. The display of items to be looked at was very impressive.

Don't let their expressions dissuade you, there were mostly smiles and laughter on this day.

The end of the night wasn't to finish lightly. The musical talent of Tim Mahoney was fabulous and there wasn't a bad seat in the house. He played as the last of the auction items were being taken away and the evidence of a wonderful evening was cleaned up. It was a bitter sweet ending to a wonderful evening but already talks of next years event are in the air.

The first annual Caden's Cause will go down as a success and set a very high standards for the ones to follow. We get to think of the wonderful little guy that set this whole thing into motion and be grateful for the five short months we got to share with him. We love you Caden.