The birthday girl!
The plan was for Eric and I to take Toni to see the Batman movie in the afternoon, then take her to Stacey's Buffet for dinner, where her family and friends would be waiting to surprise her with a party. This sounds simple enough, but was a little trickier than we anticipated...first, when Eric suggested we go to the movie, she wanted the whole family to be involved (Moms are funny like that). So Kelley and Ronnie had to be ready with excuses as to why they couldn't join us, since they were planning to go to the restaurant early to set up. Then, Toni wanted to be sure Gramz could come, so she thought we could go to an evening show after Gramz got off work. Well, everyone was meeting at Stacey's at 4:30, so that wouldn't work. So, Gramz took the day off work. But Toni still wanted to go to a later show, so some quick thinking by Gramz created an excuse about not wanting to eat a late dinner, and so Toni agreed to a matinee movie and dinner with the family afterwards. Gramz was definitely the "Surprise Party VIP."
So, as of 1:00 this afternoon, the plan was in play. Eric and I went to Toni and Gramz's house to pick them up, and then went over to the movie. This was actually the third time Eric and I saw "The Dark Knight," and it was just as good as the first two times! Although, the theater seats left a little something to be desired. Toni and Gramz also enjoyed the movie, and as soon as it was over, we headed to Stacey's, where everyone was ready and waiting for us.
We got to the buffet and headed back to the banquet room to find Ronnie and Kelley, who Toni thought had already arrived and were saving a table. As we walked into the room, Toni was shocked! The room was all decorated and filled with her friends and family, who all yelled "surprise!" She was really happy, which was great. We had been a little nervous that she wouldn't like the surprise!
People welcoming the birthday girl to her party
We all had dinner and then sang Happy Birthday, and Toni blew out her candles. Then it was time for presents and cards, and more visiting with everybody.
The cake
Opening presents
Eric celebrating his mom
Another small part of the surprise was the shirt you see Eric wearing above. As the plans for the party were developing, Eric and I were walking around DC and saw a souvenir stand with these T-shirts for sale. We thought they were great, so we brought them back for all of the kids/spouses to wear. We heart Mom!
Mom and Kids: Eric, me, Stephanie, Ronnie, Kelley and Susan
And that was our big surprise party! Happy Birthday, Toni! We love you! And I hope you can forgive me for posting this on my blog!
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