So yesterday we did a little bit of lying.
We told Steve’s dad, Ken, that only Steve was coming for his 84th birthday (which is today) and that Sarah and I couldn’t make it. (We did tell his mom that all three of us were coming since she had to think about beds and meals.)
So at about 7:30 last night, after seven hours on the road, Steve walked into his parent’s kitchen and was warmly welcomed with big smiles and bigger hugs. (Sarah and I stayed hidden out in the car.)
And then, about two minutes later, I walked in. You should have seen Ken’s face; it just lit up. He gave me a big hug and then asked with great hope in his voice, “Did Sarah come, too?”
I said, “No, I’m so sorry but she had classes today.”
His face fell a little but he was still happy to at least have Steve and I there.
And then? Two minutes later?
The door opened and beautiful Sarah arrived. And if his face lit up when he saw me, you should have seen him when he caught view of his adored granddaughter. She made him one very happy guy. (And no, we didn’t lie completely because she DID have classes yesterday morning–we left when they were done.)
Today, Sarah and I are going thrift store shopping with Steve’s mom, Vernie. And then tonight the family will gather to eat Vernie’s world famous lasagna and to honor Ken’s 84 years–well lived and well-loved.
Happy belated birthday Ken. Nice to see that smile after recovering from your surgery.
I was out of town and just read this ~ what a wonderful blessing for Ken and all of you
Thanks to everyone for your sweet birthday wishes for Ken. We had a lovely time and yes, the lasagna was great! Summer did not make the trip with us but we got to hang out with Tippy, Ken and Vernie’s Yorkshire/Shih Tzu so that was fun!
Happy 84 Ken!! Safe travels smiths!!
What sweet surprises! I hope you all have a wonderful weekend celebrating Ken!
Happy Birthday Ken! And as someone else said, where are the tissues…so glad you were able to all go for his birthday! Love surprises!
Happy Birthday, Ken. Glad the Smiths had a safe trip. Did Summer get to make the trip?
Love it!!!!!
How lovely! Happy 84th, Ken!
Happy Birthday, Ken!!! Becky, you sure have some beautiful men in your life – of all ages!!!! Your lie is forgiven, I am sure!!!
What a wonderful, happy story! Have a wonderful birthday, Ken! Enjoy celebrating and sharing 84 years of memories with your awesome family!
Linda in Pittsburgh
Have a wonderful day!!!
Happy Birthday, Ken! I love surprises like that!!!
Happy Birthday, Ken! Enjoy your wonderful family!!
Love it! 🙂 Happy Birthday, Ken! 🙂
A very happy 84th birthday Ken! Have a great day with that wonderful family!! 🙂
How fun! Enjoy. There were no lies, just “stories” to help along the surprise – which was more than worth it. Congratulations on 84 happy, wonderful years, Ken!
What a wonderful surprise! Made tears fall from my eyes. Happy Birthday Ken and happy shopping to you and Sarah!
Where are the tissues??? What a sweet thing to do, but I AM choked up from reading about it. Happy birthday to Ken.
Well dang it! You’ve made me tear up already this morning! So glad all of you got to make the trip! God’s blessings……
Happy birthday Ken. Enjoy your family time & the lasagna!
Let the good times roll!!!!