Celebrating!

I know I've said this before, but normally I don't really like when my birthday rolls around. I usually just wish I could skip it. Not sure if it being a "special" day just increases my expectations for it, but I often just wish that August 23rd was just another normal day. And yet, turning 34 came with lots of big and little birthday blessings and surprises. I am thankful for great family and friends, and am beginning to dread birthdays a bit less.

Thursday before my birthday, Gramma and Grampa stayed overnight with us. This allowed Andy and I to slip out to watch a late show. It was my pick, since my birthday was in two days, and so we saw Mamma Mia. Loved it! What a total escape from reality! Meryl Streep was awesome and the music was fabulous. I love me some Abba! (And it takes me back to my Capernwray Sweden days, which is always fun.) It was NOT the type of movie Andy would normally see in the theatre, but even he enjoyed it.

Friday was the (previously documented) day at Grouse and DQ ice cream cake, which was great.

And Saturday, the actual day of my birth, Andy did not have to go to work (a huge treat in and of itself) so we had the whole day together. I had been waiting all summer to enjoy a Wall-e matinee with my two big kids. (Andy had taken the kids for a matinee of Kung Fu Panda on his birthday, so I wanted to keep the new tradition.) We bought special kids movie passes from Costco, so we enjoyed the "full meal deal" of popcorn, drink and KinderSurprise. Yum! The kids found the movie a bit intense/sad (both actually cried during different parts!), but the experience of a "date with mommy" was great and special.

That evening we had a full family dinner at Oldhams. (Very glad my mom and dad decided to join us at the last minute!) Jim prepared a gourmet feast and Juli made a delicious cake and it was loads of fun to all be together and celebrating.

There were also several more birthday blessings from friends around the day that made me feel very loved and special. Thank-you all!

The (crowded) kids table!

My newest niece Janaya giving me a birthday smile!

My big kids oggling the dessert

A yummy carrot cake with cream cheese-y icing!


Before blowing out the candles. I am wearing the new shirt Andy and Kenna picked out for me for my birthday.

I should also post some pictures from our great week with Gramma and Grampa. We kept them very busy with our kitchen reno, but hope they enjoyed their time nonetheless! We know Grampa needs a project to keep him outta trouble! ;) Plus, it was great bonding time for Andy and he to work together to pull off our fabulous new kitchen (pictures to come VERY soon).

Playing a game with Jorja

Yum! Whatever it is, she likes it!



The cousins were modelling the new dresses Gramma brought. And Garett right away wanted in on the action!

This mini-photoshoot was taken on the hottest of days we had last week. NOTHING could stop these girls from wearing their new long-sleeve back-to-school dresses! Oh, the price of looking good!


Love the two bashful smiles (and Garett trying to sneek into the picture)!

A real laugh on her cute little face. It make my heart smile!


More of the trio!

Garett gives great snuggles


Cards with Gramma

Is Kaleb cheating?


Her smile lights up the room. Seriously.

The two "youngests"!

Thumbs up!

And I had to include this one. The kids talked Andy into letting them fall asleep in our bed. Despite the size of two little kids in a queen size bed, they ended up snuggled up close together, looking so peaceful!