This post may be almost three months overdue, but the time we had was nothing short of amazing.

I planned a surprise birthday trip for Dale. Although he was aware of the trip, the details remained undisclosed until we headed to the airport. I nearly spoiled the surprise a couple of times due to Dale’s tricky tactics – he wants a surprise but attempts to milk details from me. He caught me off guard during a conversation about dating, immediately after I asked him to stop probing for trip details. When he inquired about taking someone to dinner, I mentioned Ray’s (on the River), his favorite restaurant in Atlanta. His eyes nearly popped out, and I had to skillfully navigate my way out of that situation.

Atlanta, Dale’s second home, was the perfect surprise location. Our cousin Crystal, because that’s her jam, organized a spectacular stay with an array of activities and several surprise guests.

Dale enjoyed a week filled with his favorite activities, from his beloved sport of dining  to singing with Atlanta’s own Queen of Karaoke, Nekia.

Special thanks to Aunt Betty, Kisha, Adrian, Xavier (you were missed), Nekia, Seneca, who all joined to celebrate Dale. And, of course, a shoutout to the hostesses with the mostest, Monica and Crys.

Atlanta, until next time…