Back by the stroke of midnight!

Right before Christmas, a friend dropped off some gifts at our front door while we were out to dinner. I knew it would include a birthday gift for Oliver, but I had no idea there would be a jaw-dropping gift for me too! 

I brought the packages inside from the front porch. I was on the phone with someone (sorry I forgot who you were) when I unrolled the piece of paper. As my eyes kept moving down the page I said, "Um... I'm gonna have to call you back." 

I began to get breathless as I read what it said:

(In case you have difficulty reading the text above, I am being treated to a surprise one day trip to Chicago tomorrow with a very dear friend!)

I immediately started jumping up and down and flapping my arms once I realized this was for me?!?  I ran to find Andrew and ask what he knew about all this. He of course was in on the planning and had made sure my calendar was free for that day. He's such a catch! 

After uselessly trying to calm myself down I called Tara and squealed "EEEEEKK!!!" and quite possible busted her eardrum. My dad was in town visiting for Christmas and couldn't stop laughing at the way I was freaking out.  I mean this is like something that happens on TV, or in the movies, not in my life! 

So my adventure (squeal!) begins tomorrow morning at 4:40 AM. I already have my Starbucks Via instant coffee set out, so I can make sure and be extra perky and adventure-ready at the butt-crack of dawn. 

I have no idea what the day holds, and boy is that exciting! I can't wait to see what the ever amazing Tara Hackney has up her sleeve. 

Tara & I at the O-Team party this summer