Surprises are the Best

I have been planning it for several weeks. Since Diana leaves for Madrid on the day before her birthday, I decided to have a surprise birthday party for her. Then, when I realized that Kenneth and Melinda would be here at the same time . . . and that some of their friends would be in Kansas, I decided to expand the guest list and make it a surprise birthday/bon voyage (though Kenneth and Melinda knew about Di's surprise). Since both of them are going to be gone for awhile, I thought it would be nice to add family and godparents . . . and what do you know? We had a great party!

My kids' friends, our family, and our friends are the best! We had people drive down from Kansas City and Manhattan, up from Oklahoma City, over from Dodge City - and even fly from Krakow (though she really came to visit her family and just happened to be here at the right time). Victoria, Jon, Erica, and Dereck fabricated a story about why they were in Wichita, and as a result, we had them over for breakfast before the surprise! Aubrey, Lynn, Rob, and Pam decorated with beautiful yellow and red flowers, Spanish-looking paper, and candles. Melinda baked two DELICIOUS chocolate cakes!

All of the kids got to see family members and friends they hadn't seen in awhile. We are so blessed with the people in our lives! We are grateful for all of the people who support us and our kids in our endeavors. They are what make our lives special!