I thought I was just making the drive back from Newtown to Springdale, but little did I know what was waiting for me at Aunt Peg’s place.

As soon as I stepped through the door—boom!—SURPRISE! The entire Tizzard clan was there, smiling, laughing, and ready to celebrate. I stood frozen for a second, completely caught off guard, but then the joy kicked in. My heart swelled as I realized just how much effort everyone had gone to make the day special.

And the food! The soup was flowing like wine, steaming hot and so comforting you couldn’t help but go back for a second bowl (or two). The nice sandwiches kept making their way around the table—perfect little bites that filled in the gaps before the big finish. And then came the ice cream cake—layers of cold sweetness that hit the spot perfectly. Between the soup, the sandwiches, and the cake, nobody left hungry.

What really made the night though wasn’t just the food, but the company. We sat around telling yarns and stories, laughing until our sides hurt. Generations of family gathered under one roof, spinning tales of the past, weaving new ones for the future, and enjoying the rare gift of just being together.

It wasn’t just a birthday—it was a reminder of what family means. A surprise that turned into a memory I’ll carry with me for years to come.