35 Years Young

So I'm turning 35 on Tuesday. While it's hard to believe and I'm not sure what I thought I'd feel or expect overall I'm very grateful. I have a life that I love and great people to share it with.

Last night was the first of several upcoming birthday celebrations. Sadly, I had a stomach flu earlier this week so this was my first venture out with real food in days. I both wanted to enjoy my meal and not push my luck.

So, Jen, Sue and I went to Parkside - a place I've been wanting to try for a long time. For the past 4 years, Sue, Jen, Haley, Devon and I get together once a month for what we affectionately call 'MGD' (Monthly Girls Dinner). It's a way for us to try to ensure we see each other on a regular basis and get to try new restaurants - some of our favorite things. It's always the last Friday of the month - sometimes all of us make it and sometimes it's just a few of us. But no matter what it's always a great time.

If your birthday happens to fall in that month (and, surprisingly our birthdays are all in different months) then you get to pick the restaurant.

So thanks to Sue and Jen for kicking off my birthday celebrations this year! Today I am especially grateful for the wonderful friends I have - near and far.

All Grown Up

This past weekend my mom was in town to watch Lucie and Audrey while Chris and Missy went on a much deserved vacation together.

It's hard to believe that Lucie is 2 1/2 now and Audrey is 10 months! Time sure flies by.....

While I spend a lot of time with the girls, I often spend more with Lucie - taking her places, playing with her, etc. Audrey is growing and discovering so much right now, though, that it was great to get so much quality time with her. She's such a chill baby and so easy going. She's this close to walking, too - taking up to 5 steps on her own.

Carl was also an amazing boyfriend throughout the weekend and spent much of his free time with us - playing with Lucie, cooking for my mom, going out to lunch with the 'girls. In case I wasn't certain before, I am now - he's a great guy and I plan to keep him around.

For your enjoyment, here are some pictures. Some of the best parts of the weekend were realizing that, in this exact order, who Lucie loves the most is Buster, Carl then Tia Mellie. Ah well, at least I'm on the list. Buster is her best friend after all.

Thanks to my mom for coming in town. It's always great to see her and get to spend quality time with her. I'm glad she got to know Carl better, too. Next up - family vacation at the beach. Assuming Hurricane Irene doesn't ruin that.

Also, I'll soon have an update on my August 'mindfulness project' goals - so stick around. I promise it won't be 3 more weeks without an update.