You Say it's Your Birthday?

There's just something special about birthdays. OK, maybe you're one of those crazy people who doesn't put their birthdate on Facebook because you don't want all the attention...I'm not from that mold. My birthday was last Sunday, and having a birthday on the weekend of course means that you get a whole BIRTHDAY WEEKEND! You know it's true. I also think Sunday is the best day for a birthday because if it's Saturday, Sunday is already the day after your birthday...not nearly so exciting.

My BIRTHDAY WEEKEND started with two of the sweetest tiny people I know and their wonderful mommy. If you haven't heard, you probably haven't talked to me in two and a half years, because that's how long I've had THE BEST JOB EVER! Seriously, I love being a nanny, and I work for two of the kindest people I've ever known.

Brooke always spoils me on my birthday, and she took us to lunch at Sissy's Southern Kitchen...YUM!

Being the youngest by 8 years DOES have its up side:  all the doting. This year was no different, and I know how blessed I am to have family who will drop everything to surprise me for my birthday.

My "snnnnneaky mom" (if you get that reference, I love you; if you don't) whisked me away to get a pedicure. Since you probably won't see my beautiful pedi, here's a pic.

I'm IN LOVE with this color; I think it's Visions of Love by OPI, but I didn't look at the name on the bottle! I know, what was I thinking?! Anyway, it's much darker and more maroon than it looks in the picture.  

I kind of knew something was up when my mom showed up with my dad, and she hadn't told me he was coming. I asked, "Did Chase know Dad was coming?" Her response: "No, I just felt bad about leaving him home all day." She didn't miss a beat. Smooth, Mom...but A) that's never stopped you before, and B) he loves being at home. Hmm...

Chase had been acting strangely all week about the present he was going to get me. So really, any strange behavior he was having I associated with that. He was dressed up nice and had shaven that morning, but I just thought he had to go pick up some piece of my gift (yes, there are several components...it's a good one, folks). I was all concerned about that, and not really expecting the surprise.

When we got back, the house was filled with my sisters, cousins, and several kids...who all called me "Aunt Denise" whether I was their aunt or not (I love that!). Pink, zebra-striped streamers hung from the doorways, and there was a handmade banner for me. They had made a sweet card with photos lining every inch. Most importantly, it was hugs all around.

My first thought? "Good thing I convinced my lazy self to sweep and tidy up some this morning!" No, I'm not a good housekeeper. Yes, I'm at peace with that fact.

It was so sweet how much trouble they went to for me. We ate and the kids chased the animals around. We didn't get many pictures, unfortunately.

Now for the exciting stuff: presents!!! Actually, gifts are not a big part of my love language. Chase and I usually don't get each other anything for our birthdays or Christmas. We'll save up for a trip or electronic that we'll both enjoy, but not usually a gift just for the other person. We're both OK with that. I was so surprised when he said he wanted to get me a gift, and he wanted to keep it a secret. It was...drumroll.........

A TV for our bedroom! It's actually a computer and monitor, but I'll spare you all the details. I always tell him how much I love watching TV in bed when we go to hotels. I like live for fall Saturday mornings with College Game Day and a cup of coffee. He had really been listening, and I love that.

Sunday was brunch after church with Chase's parents! Two words: Whiskey Cake. If you haven't eaten there, people, get there ASAP! It's amazing. Unfortunately, we didn't take any pictures of our food to tempt you, but we had Chicken and Waffles, Biscuits and Gravy, and Griddle Cakes. Holy cow...so good!

Love those people!

It was a fabulous weekend, and I can't thank my family and friends enough for making it so special!