The Restaurant at Our House

Sunday, April 11, 2010
Friday night we celebrated my parents' 37th anniversary in a different way than we ever had. A few weeks ago they got an invitation to The Nepoti Restaurant ("Nepoti" is Romanian for "grandchildren" and there is a lot of Romanian - at least on my dad's side) with a reservation at 5:30pm. At that time, Paige and a few other kids greeted the couple at the hostess podium and informed them to wait a moment while their table became ready. They had a seat in the "lounge" (living room) and Will offered my dad a cigar while their "pager" went off (my phone set to vibrate). From there they were led to the basement booth table with Renee excitedly motioning and saying "You...Eat!"
The Nepoti Staff.  Cole wasn't feelin' the apron.  Or the smiling-for-a-picture.

Hostess Paige - definitely feelin' the smiling-for-a-picture

The evening was set to music and included a 7-course meal, a magician (Paige), an artist who sketched the couple's picture (Will), a solo musician on guitar (Riley), a rose offering and other tidbits with Cole and Renee as useful sidekicks. The attempt was to have the grown-ups be out of sight the entire dinner, which was pretty much successful. But we managed to hear some of the conversation which included phrases like, "have fun with your soup" and "enjoy your day."
Soloist Riley doing a practice round.

Cole - practicing offering a rose, though I don't think he did this when it mattered.

Though my sisters and I had talked with the kids about this event, we hadn't really known what to expect from them. Their excitement was overwhelming - and contagious...but definitely suitable for a happy life together of 37 years! Happy anniversary to my mom and dad!

9 comments:

suzanne said...

that is one of the cutest ideas i've heard in a long time. i bet they LOVED it.

Allyson said...

What a great idea! We're trying to think up something fun and clever for my parents' 40th this year... I'll have to keep this one in mind!

Martha said...

It was the best dinner 'out' we've ever had (seriously, the food was delicious....all nine courses!) We'll never forget it!! Thanks everyone!

Bethie said...

That's the cutest thing I've ever seen! The kids are adorable and what a great anniversary gift!!

Lavonne said...

Your dinner was the talk of the evening Saturday night when Mom, Dad and I were out with Gary and Marsha. Your folks were beaming with pride and anyone can see why. You guys are just the best!! And you've already started the next generation out on the same beautiful track! Congratulations and job well done! I love you all!!

Anonymous said...

are you serious? this was amazing. brought tears to my eyes! your parents had to just love it. great job!!

Kelly said...

What an adorable waitstaff. Seriously - LOVE IT. Great idea...so creative..so fun - for everyone!! I am definitely stealing this idea, though not sure I can execute as well as you guys!!

Alli said...

What a great idea. That is the best anniversary they've probably ever had. Oh, and can we make reservations for 6 o'clock this Friday? We've been looking for a nice new restaurant and it sounds like there's great service here.

Renay said...

OH my adorableness!! Paige rocks as the hostess. Cutest family ever (and I'm talking about you and your sisters). :)

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