Joe and the party

Today's the day . . . . . . . . . . . . to surprise

Well - it was a brilliant party.

The curries were mouthwateringly delicious and the company convivial.  The jazz was excellent - including Howie's own band that kicked everything off.  The jazz ceilidh band had us all on our feet, dancing the night away - it was all very enjoyable.

But the highlight of the night would have to be the unexpected arrival of Sue and Howie's son Joe (in the centre of the picture).  He has been away for more than a year, travelling in Australia and the Far East.  He wasn't supposed to be there - he'd told them there was no way he could make it.  So you can imagine the reaction when he strolled in!

An absolutely priceless birthday present . . . . . .