My parents were married 25 years ago as of yesterday, and last night we had a surprise party for them. The night of my wedding, my dad made me swear I wouldn’t plan anything, and he wouldn’t drop it until I swore up and down I didn’t have the time or energy to plan another big event anyway. Unbeknown to them, I was lying. I knew they didn’t want a big to-do, but I wanted to do a little something to celebrate their 25 years of love. I thought about having a few of their friends over for a BBQ, but when the guest list got to be nearing 30 people, I quickly changed my mind and booked a reservation at Casey’s Chinese Restaurant. As far as my parents knew, Nick and I were going to pick them up and bring them to the restaurant to have supper with just us and my brother. In reality, we had told everyone to meet at the restaurant at 7:30, and the plan was to bring my parent shortly after. Our reservation was for 7:30, and we arrived at their house around 7:00 to give them a card, and send out our congratulations. Little did we know, they’d be waiting in the porch with their shoes and jackets on. So, after a few excuses, and a bit of stalling, we convinced my dad to sit down for a drink, and made small talk before heading off to the restaurant. My brother Ryan drove my mom and dad, and Nick and I took my car. We sped like banshees all the way downtown, and raced into the restaurant to beat them there. (Which was completely unnecessary because my dad had to stop at the atm anyway, as he thought he should pay for his anniversary dinner??) We settled in, and shortly after they arrived, very surprised. We had about 25 of their nearest and dearest friends, three of which weren’t expected as we thought they were out of the country, in attendance. I think my mom was actually nearing tears, but she’s one tough gal, so she held it together. Waiting for them was a dozen green roses, a $250 gift card to the spa in Moose Jaw with some spa salts, a whole pile of cards, and a beautiful framed collage made by my mom’s dear friend Linda, from the day of their wedding. After getting over the initial surprise and embarrassment, we had a great meal, shared some great laughs, and had a few drinks. All in all it was a good night, and I’m glad I was able to organize something to show them that I’m very proud of them for staying strong through sickness and health, for better or worse this last quarter century and hopefully the rest of their lives.