“Surprise!”

For the last few weeks, I had been planning a surprise 30th birthday party for Marcie, which, for obvious reasons, I couldn’t write about here at The Shapiro Files until the event had occurred. Well, the big event happened on Saturday (although Marcie’s actual birthday is tomorrow) and I’m so relieved that everything went according to plan (except for her arriving slightly later than anticipated — but that type of thing always seems to happen at surprise parties). Marcie was sufficiently shocked, everyone was well-fed, and a splendid time was had by all...well, at least I hope it was!

I have to admit that it was a little stressful at times doing all the planning, buying decorations and supplies, ordering all the food and the cake (very yummy!), and getting everyone invited — all under the veil of deception. Remind me to never apply for a job with the CIA. All that secrecy stuff was exhausting!

Of course, in the end, it was all worth it! I think this photo (thanks, Loren!) of the birthday girl’s arrival says it all: