Birthday Blessings
Last Friday I turned 33. I only actually feel old when I see current high school and college students. Other than that, 33 feels wonderful!
I have more blessings in my life than I could have ever dreamed up.
I like to claim an entire weekend for my birthday enjoyment. This year was no different 
Being almost 7 months pregnant, and Mike working in the evenings last week, I decided to keep it low key this year. My actual birthday fell on a Friday. The day started out with my husband sneaking downstairs before the girls woke up to cut up some fruit and toast and serve it to me in bed. You guys–how special and thoughtful! First of all, it was a treat just to have him home in the morning as he typically leaves for work before I wake up each day. Second, that he thought of me before anything else… how did I get so lucky?!
Being almost 7 months pregnant, and Mike working in the evenings last week, I decided to keep it low key this year. My actual birthday fell on a Friday. The day started out with my husband sneaking downstairs before the girls woke up to cut up some fruit and toast and serve it to me in bed. You guys–how special and thoughtful! First of all, it was a treat just to have him home in the morning as he typically leaves for work before I wake up each day. Second, that he thought of me before anything else… how did I get so lucky?!
The girls woke up soon after that and we spent a few minutes snuggling in bed–all 4.5 of us. Then we decided to take a family trip to Denny’s for my birthday breakfast! Did you know that you get a free Grand Slam on your birthday?! A-M-A-Z-I-N-G! The four of us feasted on breakfast for about $12. All you have to do is show your ID when you pay, and they’ll take it off the bill!
After Denny’s, we visited PETCO to say good morning to the guinea pigs, mice, and fish. The girls loved that, obviously.
Later that morning, a sweet friend of mine volunteered to come over and watch the girls so I could have some “me time.” Since Mike didn’t go into work until that afternoon, we got a day date at the mall together. B.O.N.U.S. We browsed around, not really knowing what to do without the kids, then we ate lunch together at California Pizza Kitchen. It was really nice!
Later that afternoon (after naps), Lily and Emma helped me bake myself a chocolate fudge cake. We made it pretty (with icing & sprinkles) and brought it to AWANA that night Emma’s class sang to me and I pulled Lily from Cubbies so she could help me blow out the candles. She kept asking me when I was going to have my party, so I felt pressure to make a cake… and bring candles for myself. Ok, so I have no shame when it comes to my birthday… And who doesn’t love a good chocolate fudge cake?! Haha. Believe me, no one complained
Emma’s class sang to me and I pulled Lily from Cubbies so she could help me blow out the candles. She kept asking me when I was going to have my party, so I felt pressure to make a cake… and bring candles for myself. Ok, so I have no shame when it comes to my birthday… And who doesn’t love a good chocolate fudge cake?! Haha. Believe me, no one complained 
Early Saturday, I got to have some more mommy time down in Waikiki to celebrate a friend who’s moving back to the mainland at the end of the month. The same friend who watched my kids the day before, and whose family we’ve gotten super close to. Another post on that later. It’s too sad to include now 
Anyway, we went to Duke’s for breakfast, right on the beach. Let me just say that the spread they had was heavenly! I had to return to my post afterward to relieve Mike of daddy duty, but I’m grateful for the time I had with friends. Waikiki seems so far away, and I try my best to stay out of the tourist trap… but every now and then it’s nice to be reminded that we live in such a beautiful place. It’s easy to forget why Waikiki became so popular, but it truly is a one-of-a-kind beach with a unique vibe!
Anyway, we went to Duke’s for breakfast, right on the beach. Let me just say that the spread they had was heavenly! I had to return to my post afterward to relieve Mike of daddy duty, but I’m grateful for the time I had with friends. Waikiki seems so far away, and I try my best to stay out of the tourist trap… but every now and then it’s nice to be reminded that we live in such a beautiful place. It’s easy to forget why Waikiki became so popular, but it truly is a one-of-a-kind beach with a unique vibe!
Saturday evening I hosted a fondue and pajama party for myself and a few friends. A super low key ladies’ night of dipping things in milk chocolate and listening to the crackle of the Birchwood fireplace on Netflix. Great company, good conversation, and a few fun games together! It was a much needed time to unwind and catch up with some friends.
On Sunday, I wanted to have a family beach day… so after church and Sunday School we packed a lunch and headed straight for the Westside. We randomly ended up meeting a few friends at Makaha. Overall, it was a great birthday weekend! I can’t believe another one is in the books. This time next year will look much different with our newest addition in the mix! I can’t wait 
Before I wrap it up, I just want to remind myself of God’s many blessings. Our van has been in the shop going on three weeks now! Technically, it’s in the third shop now. We’re frustrated, baffled, and annoyed. But it has been a time of refining for me. The first week, we made due asking friends for rides here and there. The second week we were able to borrow a car from some dear friends of ours who were out of town. This week, a friend from church offered her car since her husband’s away for work. I cannot tell you how humbling it has been to depend on others for our needs. In our culture, it’s easy to become consumed with ourselves. Often we don’t see the needs of others because we’re so focused on our own. I’m guilty of this mindset. I have been overwhelmed by the response from friends and their willingness to give us rides, watch our kids and lend a helping hand (or car)! One of the many reminders God has used to display his goodness and provision. Thank you LORD for your daily bread.
And thank you all for your prayers and birthday wishes. What a marvelous year it has been! Here’s to many more…
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