Surprise to mom

My mom turned a very special number this year. Let's just say it's 30 unless you notice the 6-0 in the background of the decor at her surprise birthday party. Even though her birthday was in May, we had a surprise birthday party for her in June because my brother, Chad and his wife Abbi would be in from Georgia.

It was hilarious to see her reaction. She had no idea and thought that she was going to Artic Circle at 4:30pm because Abbi "was starving." SURPRISE!

This party was a little kid's dream (and a sugar toothed girl like myself). We had cupcakes and candy coming out our ears and some frozen treats that satisfied the kids taste buds before mom arrived.

The beautiful decorations are all my sister-in-law, Michelle. That girl sure has a knack for livening up the party. I think she should start a business...seriously.

We had all of my mom's favorite sugared sweets there (and a few of our own). Cinnamon bears, peanut M&Ms, Double Bubble chewing gum...

Brown licorice...

And these beautiful cupcakes were my sister-in-law, Carrie's doing. Talk about tasty. We had strawberry (my favorite), Chocolate Buttermilk, Red Velvet, and Chocolate Mint cupcakes that were all to die for. Mmmm... I am just salivating thinking about them.

And a lot of the family started to pore in...including cute Abbi who finally got to meet Carl. Abbi, meet Carl. Carl, meet Abbi's shoulder.

My sister, Crystal made these cute magnets with my mom's picture laying on the table. They turned out to be a big hit. We now have three moms on my refrigerator. But isn't she drop dead gorgeous?

The rest of the party included, a slide show of a lot of pictures compiled into a movie done by Nater. He's a whiz when it comes to that kind of stuff. Also, a water-balloon fight, volleyball, talking, eating, more eating. This family sure knows how to party, that's for sure.

All in all, we all want you to know how much we truly love you mom and all that you have done for us through the years. And even though I know that you will never read this, know that I love you so much and am grateful to you for raising a family that has grown only closer through the years. Thank you for all the sacrifices (that you remind us of often) that you made to raise six children and for putting up with each of us. You are one incredible mother and I'm grateful for your example.