Dad's Master Piece!

Dad is the master of surprises and always enjoys turning even the simplest things into a grand surprise! However, he really out did himself on this one, and I believe it to be his crowning glory which will be difficult to beat.

It all started when Zach decided to attend the Chick-fil-a Bowl in Atlanta where FSU would be playing on New Year's Eve (my Mom's birthday- her 60th this year!) This is the Barber's "off" year, so we were all away and sadly missing out on Mom's big birthday. Zach attending the game and inviting my parents made us all feel better about not being there. This is when the wheels started turning in Dad's head. Is there a way to get everyone to the game? And with only 2 weeks notice? And leaving the in-laws early? Well, a week, many phone calls, and a billion emails later we all had plans to attend the game and Mom knew nothing about it...of course. So, the planning continued on the best way to reveal our surprise to Mom and drag it out as long as possible, as Dad always likes to do. We hit a snag in the plan due to bad weather. My flight was cancelled out of WY, and I had to drive to Montana to catch another flight. Garrett drove to Vegas in blizzard conditions; I-15 closed shortly after his passing. Zach got delayed and missed his connection. But we all made it to Atlanta only 1 hr behind schedule. I was supposed to arrive last but got in first and met everyone at their gate. We were all so excited to be together and knew Mom was gonna die!

The plan carried out perfectly! I was taping the entire surprise behind a pole, as each person showed up in a funny, unique way. Jill has posted the videos, so if you want to see the real surprise click here. It's worth a few minutes, especially if you know the Barber way. We had a fantastic weekend, especially since FSU won! It will be a birthday none of us will forget. Thanks Dad for another great surprise and such a fun time!

Jill arrives first from Phoenix.

Garrett and Nicole arrive second from Vegas.

Zach and Andrea arriving last from Portland.

(bumped to First Class, poor things)

All on the escalator going to baggage claim.

The Bowl parade.

Inside the Georgia Dome. Mini Chick-fil-a cows with parachutes falling from the rafters.

Victory!

Grandma Barber was visiting at my Aunt's house. It was so good to see her all together.