Happy Birthday Dear Mom...

For the last few years I'd already been thinking about Mom's 60th Birthday. I had many different ideas about how make it a special one for her. Mom's not a big party person...obviously I didn't inherit that gene, but I wanted to do something to honour her. A few months back I started talking to Mom casually about it. I promised I wouldn't throw a big surprise party. That would be the WORST gift I could give her! Mom doesn't like being in the spot light! A few things I knew....First, I wanted it to be a classy affair. Second, I wanted her surrounded by those people in her life who love her dearly. I contacted a friend who owns the local tea shop in our historic part of town. We talked about the possibility of having an 'after hours' party so we could have the whole restaurant. I had a guest list of about 30 women. Then, I took the time to really question Mom about what SHE would like for her birthday and she decided on a smaller, more intimate gathering. I contacted a group of girls who mom has been friends with for years and years. They have met weekly for about 30 years to share their lives together and pray for one another and their families. These girls have been a huge support system to Mom as she's dealt with a devestating cancer diagnosis this past year. So, today was the day. I secretly pulled Olivia out of school, dressed the girls up, even let them wear lipstick! We picked up 2 dozen roses, and headed to Mom's to drop off Isaac with Grampa. The girls crouched down in the backseat and didn't make a peep the whole way to the restaurant. ( I didn't think they'd pull it off...) When we got there they jumped up and yelled surprise to Grandma...she was definitely surprised - her face lit up like I can't describe! We went to Serendipi Tea where the staff had prepared a lovely table, complete with the same China my mom collects. They served us noon tea with tiers of fancy sandwiches, peti-fours, and scones complete with devonshire and jam. We had a wonderful time together celebrating the beautiful, strong woman that my Mom is. So Mom, this gift is one of the ways that I want to express to you my love and admiration, my thanks for teaching me so many things growing up, and my gratitude for your constant encouragement and support. I love you for the friend you are and the amazing Grandma you are to our kids. Blessings to you on your birthday and in the year to come. I wish you health, happiness and an understanding of how special you truly are. Happy Birthday!