Oh, Happy Day(s)!

It was my birthday on Sunday, May 3. But really, celebrations started as early as Thursday, April 30.

It all began a few weeks ago, when Chris told me we were having dinner with his lab on Thursday. However, unknown to me, this was a complete and total lie.

Fast forward to Thursday evening, when Chris tells me that we need to stop by my aunt's house--on the way to dinner with the lab--in order to pick up some tubs for the birthday party we were throwing on Saturday. Chris was running late, and I was stressed that we were going to be even later to his professor's house. But, we got the show on the road, and managed to get to Aunt Deb's by 6:45. (The dinner was supposedly at 7:00.)

The tubs were waiting by the door, and Chris quickly loaded them in our car. I really wanted to visit with Deb & Tom's new puppy, so, I moseyed up the stairs. I hugged my family, said hello, and asked, "Where's the little guy?"

Out of nowhere, my MOM bounced up from behind the couch--holding the dog. I couldn't believe it! Since she and my dad moved to Oregon, I hardly ever get to see them. And it was such a treat to be surprised by her--in the flesh!--for my birthday.

Everyone started laughing; I started crying; Mom started screaming; the puppy started dancing. It was the most wonderful moment ever.

Deb quickly added: "Chris planned a totally bogus get-together tonight. You're actually staying here and having dinner with us!"

Best Birthday Gift... Ever!