Continuing the Tradition

My grandfather, my brother Rich, and my Dad.
The Trowbridge men.

Today is my father's birthday. If he was still with us, he would be 67 years old. Like last year, instead of a sappy memoir, I would like to share a story with you.

When I was about five, my mother decided to throw a surprise birthday party for my father. She invited all their friends, cooked loads of food, had plenty of booze and music. I have scattered memories of it, but I do remember the house being full of people - family and friends.

He had went with a hunting buddy to sell some fur in a town about a hour away. The buddy knew of the party and knew what time to have Dad back to the house.

When they got to the fur traders, for some reason they weren't buying or it was way too low, I honestly don't remember that. What I do remember is Dad decided to go on over to another buyers he knew...in Illinois. We lived in Seymour at the time - about a 2.5 hour drive, one way.

His buddy tried to talk him out of it but my father truly is the most stubborn person on earth. I have had physicians tell me the same of him. Eventually when it was obvious they weren't going to get back in time, he told Dad what was going down. By this time my father had committed to the trip and wasn't turning back.

Keep in mind this was about 40 years ago, no cell phones. So the party went off without the guest of honor. My mother was so mad at my Dad and understandably so. He of course felt no guilt - that was typical. Never again would she allow a surprise party to take place in the family.

Happy Birthday Dad!

What is your thoughts on surprise parties?