Birthday Recap

The best day of the year has come and gone. And this year it was a GREAT one.

Everything started with my dream to send people clean water through my charity:water campaign. We're almost halfway to my $240 goal - and we've already ensured that 4 people will get clean water. I've extended the end date for donations to December, so you still have time to send clean water!

The day before my birthday, I got two bouquets of flowers - one from my mother-in-law and one from my great friend, Kristen (the other Kristen L!). Fresh flowers are one of my favorite things, so they really started the week off right.

I worked during the day on my birthday, then came home to an incredible meal prepared by my husband. Filet mignon wrapped in bacon, twice baked potatoes (my fave!), Asian green beans (to die for!), and a cupcake from Kowalskis... oh and an amazing bottle of red wine (how could I forget that?!). He also surprised me with a dozen red roses and a beautiful necklace from Lisa Leonard Designs. Pictures will be coming soon!

On Friday, my sister-in-law, Kelly, planned a great Real Housewives-themed girls' night party. We got to choose which housewife to be for the night, played a housewife-themed game, ate some great snacks, and watched episodes from the show. I didn't realize how obsessed I've become with that show until people started asking questions... and I knew every answer. (What can I say? Bravo's the only cable channel we get!) It was so fun to celebrate with some of my favorite ladies!

Finally, on Sunday night, we went over to my in-laws house for the traditional birthday dinner. Usually the birthday person gets to choose the menu, but I left it up to my parents-in-law... and they did great! We had beef tenderloin with an incredible red wine reduction sauce, asparagus and goat cheese risotto, a great salad, and.... cheesecake!!! (Oh, and another great bottle of red wine!)

So, to say my birthday was a success is definitely an understatement. Cards from family who don't live in a 15-mile radius really sealed the deal (I LOVE getting snail mail. Jordan says I'm obsessed with checking the mailbox every day!).

To everyone who helped me celebrate, thanks. You are all so special to me and I couldn't be more grateful for the friends and family I've been blessed with.