Turning 35...It's Not So Bad!

Today is my birthday. I'm 35. Having your birthday the day after Christmas is not that great when you are a kid. You never get to have a classroom party, you are always on Christmas break so you never see your friends, often your Christmas gift was given to you with the phrase, "...and this is for your birthday, too," and everyone is so tired after Christmas that a birthday cake just doesn't sound that good to anyone after all the food everyone has eaten. My parents always tried to make sure my birthday was separate. My mom usually made a cake for me even though everyone was stuffed, and I always received my birthday presents from them on my birthday. As I have gotten older, all of that doesn't really matter. However, my husband, Derek, really goes all out on making my birthday special, and I so appreciate it. He, Evan, and Ella Grace really spoiled me this year. The kids gave me a necklace and Derek gave me a pair of earrings. They are beautiful. And, even though it was pouring rain and very cold, they took me to lunch at one of my favorite restaurants, The Marketplace, in Conway. So, turning 35 is not that bad when you get to spend the day with and go to lunch with your three favorite people. We had a great time. Thank you, Derek, for always making my birthday special. I love you.

Derek and Ella Grace (14 months)

Evan and me. He was more excited about his coloring page than getting his picture taken!

One of the best things about my birthday is that I share it with my Mamaw (my Dad's mom). She is exactly 50 years older than me, so today is a big day for her. I was able to talk with her on the phone for a while today and wish her a Happy Birthday and she did the same for me! I love having that special bond with her. Happy 85th Mamaw! Love you!