70th Surprise Birthday Party!

This past Saturday we pulled off a great surprise party for my mother. She is turning 70 and we wanted to do something special. We had a luncheon at One Pico in town which is an incredible restaurant with an amazing chef. We invited just close family and a few friends. We could not invite everyone because the family is just too big over here. 

My mother's sisters picked her up at the house and killed some time at the shops in town. She just thought she was going out to lunch with her sisters. Right after my mother left the babysitter came over to watch our children, and then the taxi picked Joe and I up to go into town. In Ireland you would never dream to even have one drink and get back into your car to drive home. They are so strict and have a zero tolerance policy.

When my mother arrived at the restaurant she was so surprised and even more surprised to see K&S who had arrived from the US. We all had a great meal and it was wonderful to all be together for a birthday instead of a funeral. I know that sounds morbid but you know what I mean. 

My Mother and I  

2nd cousin-in-law, 1st cousin-in-law,  and Joe

My mother with her youngest sister (my namesake)

My Aunt (another sister - there are lots of them btw),
1st cousin, and my mother's friend

My Mother with two of my second cousins

I put out some fun old pictures on the tables. 

Yummy meal!

The sun setting over the Ha-Penny Bridge that evening

Around 6pm we all moved over to The Fire bar and lounge so that the drinks could continue to flow. We're in Ireland don't forget. About 10 of the 30 people left around 8pm.  The rest of us stayed until shortly after midnight. Two of my cousins did a few shuttles from town and took some of us home, others got in taxis to get home. 

My cousin with his 4 children

Joe and my cousin-in-law waiting for the food at the chipper!

On the way home a few of us were starving since we had not eaten since 5pm. We stopped at a chipper.  Joe was craving chips from the chipper with curry sauce and the others wanted a burger. 

Overall the night was a success! It was loads of fun and many great laughs.