THE SURPRISE!
For my dad's 70th birthday (Dec. 14), my mom wanted to find a 1946 Willys Jeep like he drove when he was serving in the military. With help from some friends, she found one on Craigslist at the beginning of November. If you know my dad, you know it is next to impossible to pull one over on him. So that's when the lying began.
First, she went on a "shopping trip" with Gail about three weeks ago. Terry and Aubrey and I met them where the jeep was located to inspect it and make a deal. Since she did buy something, I guess that technically isn't a lie. Then, of course, there was the getting all the paperwork lined out, money handed over and Terry had to go get it. Now, this jeep only goes 35 mph so driving it home from north of Topeka in 30 degree weather wasn't really an option. Terry asked my dad if he could borrow his trailer to haul home a vehicle one of his friends had purchased..... um, lie.... Let me just say, my husband is NOT comfortable with lying -- especially to his father-in-law.
Of course, after he got it back here with help from his dad, we had to figure out where to store it. So into Tyson's storage shed it goes. Then there were all the questions Dad asked Terry about what his friend bought and where they went.... more lying.
Through multiple texts and phone calls on the sly between my mom, sister and I, it was determined that we couldn't afford to wait until my dad's actual birthday for the surprise. Hence, today my sister and Conley drove from Augusta just for a visit (ya, that should have been a red flag). We all met at Pizza Hut for lunch -- to get my dad away from the house. I told "everyone" Terry was running a little late because he was helping his dad with something.... another lie. In reality, Terry was the one who had to get the jeep started (it's cold blooded) and over to my parents' house, park it on the patio and tie a big red bow on it.
As soon as lunch was over, Terry, the girls and I raced back to the house before the rest of the crew to be in place to take pictures.
The jeep ready and waiting
The look on his face was so worth it!
.If we didn't surprise him, he sure did a good job of acting!
A Closer Inspection....
(Nice, Aubrey)
Ready to take it for a spin!
We love you PawPaw!
Happy 70th Birthday....early!
And please forgive us for all the lying...
