Hey Ho the Big Four O

I said I would share my birthday and here it is.  It's more for a record for me because, now that I'm forty I'm sure the memory will start to go :)

The morning started off with a call from Paul wishing me a happy birthday which was lovely.  But then he said he might not get to see me because he was working the next day; he'd told me earlier in the week that he had the next day off, so I was very upset.  Best friend, Sarah, called and I told her how upset I was.  Went to see my Mum and burst into tears because of the possibility I wouldn't see Paul - thought it was strange that she wasn't that concerned but only had a chance to see her for a few minutes and then I was going to my crop.

Arrived at the crop and Sandra came out to the car park to sing Happy Birthday to me, I burst into tears - at this point I must assure you that it was not her singing that caused the tears! Calmed down and went into the crop where I was greeted with this:

 All the girls at the crop had bought me presents and Sandra had baked me a beautiful cake - more tears!

While I was sitting scrapping my brother, sister in law and nephews walked past so I ran - yes, actually ran - out to see them, but they had to rush off so I was left feeling a bit down.  Basically I was tearful and feeling a bit sorry for myself all morning, no fun on your birthday :(

I went outside for some fresh air just after lunch and who should drive into the car park.....Paul!  I was so pleased, it really made my day and yes there were more tears :)

In the evening me, Paul and Sam were going out to dinner with my friend Sarah, her hubby Chris and her daughter Emily and I was really looking forward to it now.  I was just going to wear jeans and a t-shirt but Paul convinced me to dress up a bit, boy am I glad I did! 

We went over to Sarah's where I opened some more presents before walking to the restaurant.  When I went into the restaurant I was greeted by this:

 My whole family were already there! More tears because I was so happy and they really fooled me, I didn't have a clue.

 Paul had been in on the surprise the whole time! I also found out that my Mum was worried my surprise would be spoilt because when she saw me so upset she wanted to tell me all about it. Sarah was worried I would drop everything and drive down to Paul's and never find out about the surprise.  My brother, Jon, and sister in law, Lisa, had been worried that my nephews would spoil the surprise when they saw me earlier in the day. My sister, Jessica, was worried that they wouldn't get from the pub to the restaurant before I drove past and spotted them!

 Sam was a bit concerned about having to use chopsticks, Emily thought it very funny.

 Me with my lovely Mum.

And all of the balloons I was bought so that nobody had any doubt what the celebrations were about!

Such an emotional but happy day and I know I am so lucky to have such great family and friends.  Thank you all xx

Jo