Tom Turns 25!

I know I've been a bit bad at blogging since returning to the UK, but I've been busy.  Jet lag was an absolute nightmare, I had loads of unpacking and cleaning, gym attendance has been mandatory to undo the damage a gluttonous month in America did to me and I had Tom's birthday to prepare for.

On Saturday Tom turned a quarter of a century.  I couldn't let that pass without a celebration.  As we were only back in this country a few days beforehand, I knew Tom wouldn't have time to make plans.  So I took charge.  Creating a Facebook event whilst in America I planned the greatest surprise party, and I actually surprised him!

There were a few close calls though.  Tom was still recovering from jet lag on Saturday and slept for ages.  We were supposed to go to Brook Farm for tea in the afternoon, but as it was getting late we decided we would go on Sunday instead.  When Tom called his Mum to let her know she asked, "are you sure all of your friends will be gone by then?"  Uh oh.  "What friends, I don't know about this," replied Tom.  Luckily I was sitting right there.  "Well we are having a couple of people over for a meal and drinks this evening," I informed Tom.  When he found out there was only like three people besides the housemates celebrating he wasn't impressed with my organizing skills.

The meal was a perfect cover for the party.  I made a lasagna on Friday, which eight of us had with salad and garlic bread.  I could tell Tom was happy at this part of the night and suspecting nothing else.  Or friends were in on the surprise and after we finished the guys took Tom to the pub whilst the girls "did dishes and finished the cake."

As the guys left the house the surprise was almost ruined again.  Right across the street were four of Tom's home friends.  But somehow running into them didn't give the party away.  He just assumed they were joining us for drinks, and didn't suspect anything more.

Then the party arrived.  Just over twenty people made it down for the night.  I was very excited about the turn out.  Along with Tom's friends from home, a number of people came from London including some Tom hadn't seen in ages and others who had to return that night.  When Tom got back from the pub he was gobsmacked!

He was shocked to see so many people, and shocked at some of the people he saw.  It was a tremendous party.  A big reunion for many and a great celebration for Tom.  It really shows how many good friends he has.

Thanks to everyone who came, and Happy Birthday Tom!

Love