Travis’ 40th Birthday surprise party

I couldn’t let Travis’ birthday go by without a bigger party, so I surprised him with a few close friends and co-workers.  I had planned the party for the 17th, 10 days after his birthday.  I never realized how stressful it is to plan a surprise for someone that you live with!  Since our new furniture had come in for the living room, I wanted to make sure the room was “finished” - not so easy when we had decided that we needed to hold off on spending more money on the house.  I also decided to repaint the eating area of the kitchen.  I was getting the feeling that T. was getting a little annoyed with me.  So trying to not pay attention to his reactions and trying to keep a secret, made me a little tense, and, in return, worried that he was wondering why I acting this way.  UGH – exhausting!!

The best part of the plan happened a week before the party.  I knew that Laura’s husband, Rick, was going to keep him occupied the day of the party and deliver him at 5:30.  But someone was smiling down on my plans and put Travis in MI for business the day before his party, only 20 minutes away from Rick & Laura’s lake house!!  So, conveniently, Rick invited Travis to stay in MI after his meeting and fish that night and Sat. morning.  Rick said he had to return Sat. night for his brother’s birthday party (meaning T’s party).  Genius!  And thank you to whomever made that all possible.  I was able to clean, decorate and prepare without worrying about him being around.

I even let Adam in on the secret the night before the party, which was risky, but he pulled through, even bragging that he had talked to Daddy and not mentioned the party!

It was a success, with Travis walking in not knowing what in the hell was going on!!  He was completely surprised and everyone had a really nice time.  I had t-shirts made up for us:

The boys and I had “My Daddy/Husband is 40!!!” on the front and “that’s old!!” on the back.  Travis’ said, “Vintage 1970, aged to perfection” on the front and , “my wife says I’m still hot” on the back.

The boys were so excited about having a party, of course, Alex associates that with cake!  Notice that in both pics he can’t get his eyes off the cupcakes!

And important note – do not get frosting in such a dark, strong color!  Look at their teeth:

Laura bought Travis and Rick matching fishing hats – we know they will be fishing and golfing together all summer long.

Alex modeling Daddy’s BMW hat:

Such a fun night!!!!