history: Some of my friends told me that they had a big surprise for me. They know I hate surprises, but I complied and let the blindfold me and drive me out to the location. Some of my friends told me that they had a big surprise for me. They know I hate surprises_comma_ but I complied and let the blindfold me and drive me out to the location. That sounds exciting and scary.  What was the surprise?
current: They had decided to pool their money together and get me one big present together. It was a flying lesson at the local airport. 
next: That is so awesome.  Did you have fun? and more important, are you a pilot now?