The Surprise Party

Confetti filled gold, nestled among black and white balloons tied in a bouquet were placed precisely in the middle of each black tablecloth. The sound of 80s pop music filled the air while people of all ages mingled around the antiquated hall.  

“Do you think she knows?” rang as the conversation starter of the evening by both family and friends.

Guests filled their plates with an assortment of hors-d’oeuvres.  Her children watched the clock. She should be here any minute now.

“Everyone, she has arrived!” exclaimed the DJ from the makeshift stage in the corner of the room. 

The laughter, music and friendly conversations were replaced by a quiet hush as the party guests silenced themselves in anticipation of her arrival. The faint smell of pulled pork and BBQ ribs filled the noiseless air.

“Surprise!” everyone shouted as she entered through the front door.  

Her eyes opened wide.  Her head dropped in disbelief. Her hand covered her mouth as she began to cry. The guests remained in their spots, watching her reaction. A few took photos, while the rest just smiled.

The youngest guests, her grandchildren, ran up to embrace her in warm hugs.

Turning 70 wasn’t nearly as difficult as she imagined because she was surrounded by everyone she loved.

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