March 30, 2025: The Birthday Surprise

On my 40th birthday, I couldn’t believe what showed up in my driveway.

My friends had hinted at something but refused to spill the details. All they said was, “Be ready at 5PM, dressed for a date.”

Right on time, a sleek limo arrived. The driver swung open the doors and announced our destination: the Williamsburg Inn, a swanky spot 30 minutes away.

That night, Jess and I rode — and dined — like royalty. Our friends covered everything, making it an evening to remember.

Fast forward a few years to this weekend's birthday meal. We chose a cozy countryside restaurant, tucked inside an old house about half an hour away.

As we ate, two long-lost friends appeared at our table. We caught up and told them we were celebrating my special day. It was a sweet reunion, and they left a few minutes later.

At the end of our meal, dessert came — unordered. “From your friends,” the server said. “And… they took care of dinner, too.”

We stared at each other, stunned.

A random encounter, another act of birthday kindness.