Dad and Mom's anniversary is Feb. 15, and my brother's 20th birthday was the 14th (best Valentine's and anniversary gift they ever got, according to him), so it was a perfect excuse to visit, since we wanted a surprise party. My aunt handled the local logistics (this was pre-internet days after all). We planned the party for Sunday afternoon at 1:00 p.m., at the house. As we left for church, we "accidentally" left the door unlocked so my aunt could get in and set up.
After church we all went out to dinner for Doug's birthday. Doug chose a restaurant about 15 miles away to give plenty of time for everyone to arrive. Of course as these things go, church got out early for once, and we beat the crowds to the restaurant, so our food arrived very quickly and we were done too soon. Kent and Doug took turns ordering extra desserts to stall. Dad was ready to go and getting impatient, and Kent was trying to force down each bite, dragging it out was long as possible!
Everything was in place and everyone there when we got home, and Dad and Mom were surprised. We had a pleasant afternoon visiting with everyone and looking at old pictures. But as soon as it was over we had to start our 8-hour drive home to be back at work the next day. So glad for a cassette deck in the car!
