We're having a surprise retirement party for my mom the first weekend in January at a local bar/restaurant. Several of her former co-workers now live out of town or out of state, but come back to visit their families about once a month.
1) When should I mail the invitations? Normally I would think 2-3 weeks in advance. Do you think that's fine?
2) I need help coming up with a poem/rhyme for her invitations. She's been there for 41 years and is literally the LAST one of her many groups over the years to retire. It's a big FINALLY for sure. I would love any ideas, even to get me started!
3)Are there any "common" retirement gifts or gags? I seem to remember a money tree for a retirement a LONG time ago that I went to. What's that all about?

TIA

By Reds9298 on Tuesday, December 5, 2006 - 09:45 pm:

Bump

By Colette on Tuesday, December 5, 2006 - 09:49 pm:

2-3 weeks is fine, if you can get them out earlier then that's good too.

My dad just retired from the same co that he's worked at for 45yrs. The co. did nothing for him, so my sister and I tried to make it extra special for him. I guess what you do will depend on your mother's personality.

By Dana on Wednesday, December 6, 2006 - 08:50 am:

Colette, I'm shocked that your dad left with no special good-byes after so many years! Companies really don't care about the person any more or the employees commitment. Hmmph.

Reds I'm not helpful on your post. But it is wonderful that there are so many other people who were close and would take the time to celebrate "the last" retirement.