Birthday Blessings

Yup, today was my birthday. I've decided this is the last one I'm going to count. I'm 39 and holding now.... I had a very nice day. After church we went out to eat at Carrabbas with Beppe & Pakka. My family loaded me down with gifts. Tony took the kids shopping so that always make the gifts that the kids pick out extra special. I love the handmade cards too. Quinn couldn't wait for me to open up his "Massaging Toggle Slippers" complete with a hand held little vibrating back-rub thingy which he then proceeded to use on my arms and back... right in the restaurant. I'll let you know how the slippers work out. He told me he was especially glad to have found pink ones for me. Madison picked out a pretty silver locket that says "Mom" on it. It's really nice and something that definitely represents her tastes too. Tony got me a gift card to the Family Christian Bookstore and B & P gave me a gift card to Kohl's. Really I felt like I had a "birthday week"...my friends brought me gifts and just spoiled me throughout the week. My friends at work gave me gifts; Addi made this really special cake just for me (see picture below). I got birthday cards, phone calls and emails.... On second thought, I'll think about celebrating next year after all! Thanks everyone. I felt very loved this week.


We browsed around after lunch. We need a new video camera. Ours is totally broken. We used it a ton and have had it for like 10 years or something. It was time for a new one I guess. We didn't buy one yet. It takes us forever to do the research etc... because it will be another 10 year commitment. : )

Today I can't help to be reminded of my dear college friend, Michelle. Two years ago today she tragically passed away from complications of childbirth. That means her second daughter is now 2. I've thought of her husband Brian, daughters, sister Tracy, Dan and the rest of her family today. Pause for a moment, will you, to say a prayer for them. A day that has been happy for me has been hard for them I'm sure. Michelle wouldn't want me to be sad and missing her on my birthday... I sure would love to talk to her again.

OK, well... Tony ran to the video store to rent "Wild Hogs" for us to watch after the kids go to bed. After all he told me that today, "my life is all for you" so he promptly ran to the video store after my suggestion. Ha!

Yep, I've decided. I'm having another birthday next year!

Love, Leah