In the past year I have been involved in three surprise parties, from the planning stage to the actual event. It seemed that hosting a surprise event or party had almost died off - it was not the "IN" thing to do. Well I for one am glad to see the surprise party making its way back into our lifestyle. I recently wrote about my wife's 50th birthday celebration which was secretly planned with my daughter's wedding shower. Then there was the Gator Dave cooking throw down, which combined a birthday celebration with a culinary competition. My latest blog tells of Chris Bickelman's surprise event for his wife Lin (Belinda), with its catchy spy phrase.

So what surprise event were you involved in? Or were you caught by surprise when someone planned an event for you? Why not share your story with others at valleynews.com? I find this site a fun way to share everyday celebrations with friends and family, including my sisters in Cape Cod and Australia.