Over the weekend, we threw my mom a surprise birthday party for her big 6-OH! Since she's been working tirelessly taking care of my grandma, I thought she deserved some extra special attention this year. My brother, dad and I have been scheming for weeks, trying to keep it a secret. No easy feat!
It was a two-part surprise. First, we met her at the wacky Ride The Ducks of Seattle land and water tour, something she's been wanting to do for awhile now. The bus drives right into Lake Union and becomes a boat! I wasn't quite sure what to expect, but we had a great time being a tourist in our own city. Learned quite a few fun facts! Captain Chaos, who totally reminded me of comedian Dane Cook, was awesome. He led us around the city, blasting music, dancing, cracking jokes and embarrassing my mom.
After the tour, more friends and family gathered at my brother's house for the second surprise, a cheese and wine soiree. The look on her face when she walked through the door was priceless! I was too busy to take photos, but earlier in the day, I set up a variety of gourmet cheeses on slate boards with crackers, nuts, olives, jams, and made some tasty appetizers: strawberry & goat cheese bruschetta, walnut & blue cheese grapes, haloumi & caramelized fig skewers, fresh herbed cream cheese on cucumbers and dark chocolate-filled raspberries.
I can't believe we pulled it off. I loved seeing her so happy, especially when everyone shared their favorite memories of my mom.
When my friends threw me a surprise bridal shower, I came to the realization that everyone should have a surprise party thrown for them at least once in their lives. Have you ever thrown one? Or had one thrown in your honor?
