We did it! We pulled off the surprise!!!

No one blabbed, no one let it slip---amazing! Our family successfully pulled off a surprise birthday party for my sister, Lynn, who turned 60 last Monday. She never even guessed or was suspicious that all (almost all...) my sisters were in town, not to mention Justin coming up for no other reason than to visit with me! We did it! Of course she wept a bit, some of us helped her cry, because she was so blown away. Lori gets the credit of putting it together, not without a few bugs, because she lives across the state and was not around ahead of time to manage things. Other than a few communication glitches (always a problem!), Lynn was surprised by a roomful of family, friends, and church family wishing her well on her big 6-0 birthday!

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Her gifts included gift cards to various places around town, many of her favorites, plus a printer so she can print her photos. Tommy and Linda got her a toot-toot horn for her bike, plus reflector lights and headlight so she can ride safely at night. Lisa's boys made Grandma Lynn molds of their hands and feet, a true treasure! We got to see our aunty and cousins, and some of the attendees were able to make use of the swimming pool, including Lori, who opted to jump in, clothing and all. David made us all laugh by speculating whether or not she had a "back-up" bra along or not. Oh, that guy, he's always good for a chuckle!

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After the party, some of us adjourned to Mom's to play a game of Apples to Apples, including my auntie, Marie, who is in her high 80's. She's a real good sport. My cousin, Barb, was here, too, which it all the more fun. After folks had headed for home, Justin and Alayna made a quick trip over to the Green Street to get some good WI perch and cheese curds, because Justin didn't want to eat the same thing he had for lunch. Is he spoiled or what????

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Now the house has quieted and I am feeling ready for sleep, too. We are going to early church in the morning and then to Bible study afterward. Justin and I will pack our stuff before heading over to see Arno and the rest of the Hackmann's. We might have a quick dinner with Nancy and the kids before we drive down to Milwaukee to our hotel and to watch the Packer game. I'd rather drive down the night before than break our necks in the morning, wee hours of the a.m., before catching our flight. The hotel cost is about half the cost of changing one of the tickets so it's worth it to me. And a good night's sleep? Priceless!!!!!