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The birthday party, a surprise, Had lots of things to tantalize – A lovely house, delicious food, A friendly host to set the mood… Some dialogue with friends and kin, The birthday gal’s elated grin When, from the car, she looked about As all of us let out a shout. My favorite part, though, was to see, Transcribed to view on a TV, Home movies of the honored guest, The past revived at our behest. Most partygoers knew her then And lived those mem’ries once again But we don’t go back quite as far So watching really raised the bar: An eighth grade trip, a P.J. bash, A backyard pool, with hose and splash, The senior prom (and she the queen!), A high school graduation scene. To see my friend so very young Gave background to the praises sung And piled so high upon her plate By all who came to celebrate. As pals and family reminisced, I saw a bit of what I’d missed But I was thrilled to recognize My younger friend, a sweet surprise.