Sweeter Sunshine: A Road Trip, Horses, and Minions

Will's Birthday

This year for Will's birthday, I wanted to do something really special for him, because I naturally think he is a special person. So I decided, what's more special than a surprise party? I thought, this should be easy, because he's a laid back person, and never really wants to have a big party. However, I found planning this surprise a bit more difficult than anticipated, because for the first time ever he wanted to plan his own party.

I was able to keep things under wrap and told him that I had a road trip planned for his birthday. I played it off like I had this big elaborate thing planned out. But in reality, I had no clue what I was going to do to get him out of the house so that my awesome mom and family could come over and decorate my backyard for his surprise party. Finally, the day before the "road trip" and his surprise party, I came up with a brilliant idea, to keep us busy while the party preparations were on its way at our home. I saw an ad for horseback riding and thought, "What the heck? Everyone loves horses, why not take him horseback riding in the Arizona mountains?" So plans were made, and a car picnic packed for our road trip the next day.

When I finally told him about my plans to take him on an hour long horseback ride, my great idea backfired on me. Apparently, he had had some sort of traumatic experience on a horse as a teen, and was not fond of horses since then. Well, if I had been a good wife, I would have thought to ask him about his thoughts on horseback riding, but since I wasn't, I had already swiped my credit card and made non-refundable reservations. So, the show went on.

Saddling up

Our road trip up to the mountains was beautiful, and so fun with Will. When we finally got to the farm, Will seemed a little less hesitant, and more willing to go on, seeing as I had already invested a pretty penny into the trip. The hour long ride was a great experience, and I was in awe of the beautiful mountain range. Aside from being a little sore from the ride, the only memorable thing that stood out was that Will's horse stopped to take an unlady-like restroom break on the trail. Poor Will could do nothing but sit there and hold his nose.

My love

When we started to head home, we still needed to burn a few hours before coming home to the surprise party. So I tried my best to stall, by asking to stop frequently for RR breaks, etc. I did manage to get him to stop at a rest stop, telling him that I wanted to take pictures of the scenery. ( just looking for a way to burn time.)

Making a wish!

By the time we came home, Will pretty much knew something was up, but played along to make me happy. Family and friends were there to greet us, as we arrived home from our long trip. Thanks to my mom, sister, and so many more family members and friends his party was a hit! He was so happy to see everyone there for him. My sister, even made cute Despicable Me Minion cupcakes for the party. In all, it was a great day, and my only wish would have been that he would have been able to share it with more of his family.