Finally, I can blog about this.

Today is BJ’s mother’s 80th birthday, and the three kids decided to throw her a surprise party.  A word of advice:  Don’t try this at home.

First,  planning a party for about 75-100 people without letting on to the guest of honor is a logistical nightmare.  While I was not directly involved in it, I know Johnny and JR (BJ’s two brothers) were doing an intricate tap dance, telling everyone invited not to let the surprise slip out and playing dumb in front of her.

Second, the woman hates surprises.  I thought from the get-go that the wiser course of action would have been to just tell her up front, let her make some of the decisions, and just stand back while she basked in the glory.  To be honest, I was expecting World War Three.

Gladly, I was wrong.  She was completely blown away, and everyone (including her) had a wonderful time.  All we were responsible for was baking and delivering the birthday cake, but we also had fried chicken, baked beans, macaroni salad, fresh veggies and dip, rigatoni, and a whole lot more.  A few family members travelled for several hours to be there, so it was like a big reunion.  She received lots of gifts.  Best of all, she cried real tears of joy.  It was nice.

Even though everything went very well, much better than I ever dared hope for, I’m glad it’s finally over.  Now I no longer have to watch every word I say!