The Big One!

This Birthday was a little tough for me. I can't believe that I have been alive for 3 decades and that I am half way to 60!

The night before I was doing some deep thinking about what I have done over the years. Sometimes I look at Nick and can't believe that we have been together for so long. I can believe how much I love him now compared to when we first met over 12 years ago. I look at my kids and wonder when and how they got to be so big! I think of all the adventures, fun times, and struggles we have had. And I realize that I wouldn't trade my "years" for anything!

Nick made a point of calling me throughout the day and asking cute questions like: Are your joints hurting? I didn't notice any gray or white hair this morning, how is it looking now? Can you hear me alright? The laughter is just what I needed!

Nick let me sleep in. I woke to 4 excited boys singing Happy Birthday! Jaren was a little confused and didn't want to get into my bed when he had just been released from his. When I got up and walked through the house the boys had decorated it with Hello Kitty balloons and streamers! It was fun and very different to see pink and purple everywhere!

The night before we went to Johnny Rockets for an early celebration. I love Jaren's expression in this picture!

We let Jaren play on the toy machines for the first time. I think he liked it!

Nick as principle of our school gave me the day off! Corbin was gone most of the morning and Owen took care of Jaren. I was able to get laundry, floors cleaned, kitchen organized, and my bathroom cleaned uninterrupted. Half way through my cleaning Owen told me, "It is your birthday, you shouldn't be cleaning." I answered, "Actually I like cleaning, it makes me happy!" Owen said, "Me too!" I am a nerd, but for me there is something wonderful about a totally clean house!

When Nick got home he and the boys decorated the kitchen table. When I entered the room they had me close my eyes and bend over. Corbin presented me with a Hello Kitty tiara! I thought they did an excellent job with the table. I love how balanced and color coordinated it is! We had Panda which is now Owen and Corbin's favorite restaurant.

The boys gave me my very first Lego set, Toy Story with RC, Buzz and Woody!

Nick made me an awesome cake. Or maybe he just bought it. It was supper yummy!

Corbin really got into singing Happy Birthday! He even held the last note super long!

When I was growing up my parents would take a picture of all our gifts. I have enjoyed going back and looking at them from over the years. Another fun thing our family does is signs a cereal box instead of giving a birthday card.

I enjoyed all the phone calls, emails, and facebook Happy Birthdays. I even had a few friends stop by with gifts. Thanks for being so thoughtful!

The boys and Nick did an awesome job of treating me good.

It was a perfect day!