Party guests hid in our family room when we got word that Joe and Carson had entered our neighborhood.
Carson's recent party was a true surprise party, both for the honoree and most of the guests! Invitations were issued through secret e-mails to family and whispered announcements to friends' parents. Most of the kids found out about the party after school Thursday so we could be sure to keep the celebration a surprise.
We gathered everyone in our family room when Joe and Carson came into the neighborhood. Carson was lying down in the back seat of the car, so he didn't even notice the extra cars on our street when they pulled into the driveway. "Race you to the door," Joe challenged, and Carson hopped out of the car without even looking around. I had closed the blinds of our kitchen door, so Carson was shocked when he opened the door and the gathered crowd yelled, "Happy birthday, Carson! You rock!"
Carson looked stunned and said he felt like he was going to faint. He said the night felt like a dream -- a dream I'm sure he will never forget!
Carson was thrilled to see his Nana and Pop at the party. This was a special treat because it is the first time Joe's parents have been able to visit since his mom broke her leg in November. Seeing them brought back memories of their visit to meet their first grandson 10 years ago.
My grandparents also attended the party. Carson and Grandma have a special bond, and he is so blessed to have enjoyed a close relationship with his great-grandmother for 10 years now. My mother is recuperating from foot surgery and other relatives were not able to attend the party because it was on a weeknight, but they were all with us in spirit and their birthday wishes meant a lot to the birthday boy!
We could not let Carson enter double digits without a little fanfare, and I hope he realizes how loved he is as he enters his next decade of life.
Happy Birthday, Carson! You rock!
