Happy Birthday to Me!

Last Friday, I was blessed to celebrate my birthday with family and friends. (I was relieved to find three-one much less traumatic than last year's farewell to my twenties. Phew!)

I woke up to the sound of my parents leaving me a birthday message on my answering machine (they were headed out of town); and though I didn't get to speak with them directly, it was a good way to start the day.

Friday evening, our church small group had made plans to get together for pizza and games, so we had a fun night of hanging out and getting to know one another better (and while I was celebrated, it wasn't all about me - which was good).

Molly gave me a copy of a book I'd read once and loved, The Narrow Road by Brother Andrew. I recall being so inspired, that I can't wait to read it again. Gary gave me a bible study on the book of Romans that I'd asked for.

These were thoughtful gifts, but the real celebration came Saturday evening, when Gary and Molly combined forces to take over the kitchen and prepare me a special dinner! This was special and significant for me, due to the rarity of the occasion. Prior to this night, Gary has cooked for me twice - and one of those was because he had lost a bet!

Despite the lack of experience, Gary and Molly did an incredible job putting together a gourmet pasta dish with roasted turkey and sun-dried tomatoes (does that sound like a weird combination? I thought it did, but it tastes amazing!).

I feel so blessed and honored to have friends like these in my life, who give me the best gifts of all - love, laughter, and great food! Thanks, guys!