Surprise!

This past weekend was a most interesting one. Several months ago, my dad asked Natalie and me if we would be able to join them in celebrating his and his girlfriend (Judy’s) birthdays—they both turn 60 this year and wanted to have a birthday party for the two of them. Since their birthdays are a mere couple months apart, they split the difference and had their party last Saturday, June 10th. They were also taking this opportunity to have their house blessed after completely remodeling the inside and new paint on the outside. Our having his fourth grandchild—third this year—it was important that we make it so the whole family would be together to celebrate this auspicious occasion. We, of course, were delighted and promised to attend.

We received our invitation…
…and Natalie thought the wording suspicious. I thought nothing of it.

Since my dad lives about a five-hour drive from us, we don’t get to see him often—once or twice a year—so we were very much looking forward to this trip. We arrived late Friday night to a warm welcome and a wonderfully remodeled home—new carpeting, hard wood flooring with area rugs, new paint, Corian countertops, etc. The house never looked so great!

We visited for about an hour, than turned in for the night. The next morning, my sister Kristen and her fiancé, Wil, arrived and we all helped prepare for the party and decorate to the Hawaiian Luau theme. While I was sweeping off the back deck, I came across what could only be described as an alter. It was then that I realized I was going to lose a bet with my wife. Either there was going to be a sacrifice to the Hawaiian gods that night, or someone was getting married.

The guests began to arrive around two o’clock, and everyone participated in the luau theme. It was beginning to look like a Don Ho concert.

At about three or so, everyone was gathered out on the deck for the formal dedication of the house and blessing, my dad’s friend, Reverend Jay presiding. Jay did his best to not spill the beans, but he himmed-and-hawwed throughout his speech so much, if you didn’t suspect anything before, you were beginning to now. After several minutes of this, he turned the floor over to my dad who began a pouring of affection toward his girlfriend. He then turned to her, got on one knee, and popped the question. It was at this point, I’m sure, everyone was curious as to how far this would go.

Judy said, “Yes,” and we all cheered.
Suddenly, a guest yells, “do it now!”
Jay responds, “I’ve come prepared…”

The next thing you know, the dedication turns into a wedding. This was, of course, planned ahead of time, but surprising the guests was a blast anyway. Those who suspected were not surprised, and those who didn’t have a clue were picking their chins up off the ground.

The ceremony was beautiful, and the party a huge success. Everyone had something to talk about; and my brother, sister, and I were questioned by all whether we knew or not.

I took a lot of pictures and video. My dad was thrilled to see me recording video of the whole thing. He has the video, so I can’t share that with you, but I’ve uploaded the pictures for all to see. Go HERE for the fun!