Toots' 77th surprise

Yesterday was FUN. It was Toots' 77th birthday and Donna and I had planned to surprise her. Neal had sent a real birthday card and I'd sent an e-card so Donna said she didn't suspect anything. I picked up Neal and when we got there, parked on Donna and Gene's side of the duplex. Donna urged us to hurry because her Mom was one made little old lady because they wouldn't tell her what was going on nor let her into their side of the house! Gene put the gifts on Toots' little patio table, Donna had all the food set up on her kitchen counter, and Neal and I hid in the utility room. Matthew ran over to bring Toots back to their side and I could hear her oohing and aahing over the food spread. Then I heard Donna say: "There's more. Go back to the utility room." I had the camera trained on the doorway so as soon as she walked in, I snapped a shot of her just as she said, "OOOOH, S***!" Yes, I think she was totally surprised. Donna again said, "There's more. Walk around back." She spotted the gifts then and began ripping into them. I had wrapped a bunch of small things, items that I would like to have because they were practical and apparently she appreciated them, too. She remarked, "This is the best birthday I've ever had." That opinion might stand until next July!!

Today is "sibling lunch" day. Once a month Jerry, his brother, and sisters, and sometimes offspring meet for lunch and gabbing. I go, too, and always look forward to it. Today, we're going to a Japanese Hibachi grill and maybe sushi.