So as it turns out Pizza Putt and Karaoke at JP's weren't the only birthday surprises I had planned for Ray!  There were folks who couldn't make the Saturday gig, so I also planned a surprise dinner for Ray on his actual birthday at his favorite restaurant, Silver Palace.  But my husband is a complicated man.  He can't make anything simple.  So what does he do?  He goes and schedules a tour at RPI campus to explore their MFA and PhD programs on his actual birthday!  So with a quick reshuffle of the plans, dinner was moved to today. 

But as I said, Ray is a complicated man, so what does he go and do?  Well, he contracted pink eye.    So we sent him to the doctor first thing in the morning, and then sent him home to rest.  He even required some serious prodding to get him to dinner.  I even had to spill some of the beans (well, we have a reservation).  He perked up at that, but then asked if it would be OK if we invited his parents (so I had to tell him they were already coming).  Never easy, I did not have to tell him that his friends would be there too (or that his Dad would have to miss it due to the stomach flu!  Feel better!).  So ultimately he was surprised and our large party enjoyed a veritable Chinese feast!

We were joined by Nate, Jina, Vanessa, Sarah, Jay, Jami, Danielle, Tonya, Kevin and Emily (who were picture-shy) for a wonderful meal!

The pink-eye ridden birthday boy was a bit camera shy, but he was certainly proud to show off his gift from the Jergers - IT'S BUSINESS TIME!  (complete with business socks and all!)

I am super greatful to everyone who helped keep the secret, and for being so flexible with the date change!  We had a great meal, super company and an awesome time sending some love to an amazing man!