My 40th Birthday

Russell and my friends planned a wonderful birthday celebration for my big birthday.

First, they showed up at my house uninvited. Then, they had the nerve to not only come into my house, but my bedroom, and even, my closet. They picked out clothes for me to take on the trip. Surprisingly, I went with them. Unfortunately, the couple pairs of pants that were chosen to take were cute but a size too small.

Michelle was in charge of blindfolding me and keeping me unaware of my surroundings. I'm not sure she felt that was too hard a task considering who she was working with. They thought I would feel special dressed up as a princess. They didn't realize I'm used to it and like it.

Wendy drove us on our road trip. She was a real trooper. My dear friends made me answer 20 in depth questions since they love that I ask them so many. Judy and Debbie kept me entertained and feed so that I didn't get suspicious that they were making me ride in a car in a blindfold for hours. Ironically, it worked. I was compliant as long as they kept handing me wonderful surprises to open. I was all smiles when I realized I got my own personal autographed picture from Lisa Whelchel.

Once we reached our destination we had a relaxing massage at a spa. I just knew I was meant to be a princess.

Kelly printed up and mailed out all the invitations. Russ found the perfect spot, Pappositos, which is my favorite. Jessica helped decorate the room.

Lisa made me a delicous gluten free cake. I wasn't even tempted to cheat and try the other glutenful cake. Ari made me a throne to sit on.

I was so glad to see my family and friends who mean so much to me.

Kim and I have been friends since I was in first grade. Her mom used to say we were as different as black and white. Ashley and I have been friends since we were in fourth grade. We went to church together. We all played on the tennis team in high school. Cindy and I grew up together because our moms were close friends. Pat's family is like our family. We have spent a lot of time together. My oldest two kids spend part of the summer with Cindy's kids.