Happy Birthday to Me...

Since my birthday is so close to Christmas, it always feels like a bit of an afterthought.  It's nice, but a little lack-luster.  For the most part, I'm okay with that - 'cause really, I can't change it right?  But this year my birthday was sooo wonderful!  Drew spoiled me big-time!  First, I received so many beautiful cards from Drew, my parents, my in-laws and my kids!  Then Drew arranged for the kids to go to Grandma & Paka's house for a few hours and he took me shopping!  First lets be clear - I rarely buy anything for myself unless it's on some crazy clearance sale.  So my closet is sadly outdated.  Drew took me shopping for clothes and didn't complain once!  He even carried my bags and then took me out to get a quick bite before we picked up the kids.  Shopping + hubby + food + no kids along for said shopping = the best night out!  I am a lucky girl!

THEN... Drew set up a dinner on Sunday with our closest friends.  He put the whole meal together with dessert and it was delicious = marinated grilled chicken with rosemary roasted sweet potatoes and green salad with cheese cake and triple berry topping for dessert.  Drool...

Our friends also brought a cake and a gift card.  They are the best friends ever!

On Monday, the boys and I went to Nana & Papa's house for a birthday lunch.  My mom is soo creative!  This lunch was beautiful - and of course it was also delicious!  She made little sandwiches using cookie cutters and garnished each one with more cookie-cutter toppings.  In my family we communicate with food.  Everything is better with food and every special event has something to eat.  I like that about my family.  :)

(Kind of a weird pic - but I don't have any other recent photos)

Thank you EVERYONE!  All of the well wishes were so kind and thoughtful.  I feel so blessed to have such wonderful people in my life!  Happy Birthday to me!