Tuesday is my 30th birthday. I can't believe I am almost 30! I don't want to turn 30--my husband says it's just another number (he is 33). I always dreamed I would have a child or two by the age of 30....obviously God had another plan in mind.
Last night my mother-in-law planned a birthday dinner out of town at a new italian restaurant in the town my husband and I went to college in--Arkadelphia. My mom-in-law and father-in-law and my hubby and I and my husband's brother and his daughter Sophie (see previous post) made the hour and a half drive together. My brother-in-laws wife and youngest daughter was in Branson Christmas shopping and we missed them. We met my bestest friend from college, Kelly, and her daughter at the restaurant. She teaches kindergarten and 1st grade music in Arkadoo. It was a great evening visiting and mainly trying to keep the two little ones happy! Here are some pics:
Kelly and I:

Kelly and her daughter Michaelina

My awesome mother and father-in-law

(above) My brother-in-law telling a funny story to my husband (this is normal)
Sophie and I

I have no pics from last night of my husband and I on my camera--they are on his Mom's, so I will post them later!
Today my hubby and I went out of town after church to eat for my birthday at my favorite restaurant--Olive Garden! It was so yummy--I had chicken parmigiana and bellini tea and then we split the torte di chocolate for dessert. I think I could eat at Olive Garden everyday! We hit the mall next and I got some Victoria's Secret Pink lotion and some black New Balance shoes. My mother-in-law got me an American Eagle gift card (my fav store) and I already spent the gift card and then my husband bought me clothes too there. I got a great purse from my brother-in-law and sis-in-law and my friend Kelly got me another Vera Bradley bag (I love those too!).
Tomorrow I am heading out of town one more time (I live in the middle of nowhere and we are out of school for 'Deer Day') with my two closest friends here. We are shopping and eating out for my birthday---we always have a super time together when we can get away! I am so thankful for all my friends and family who I can share this special (but somewhat dreaded) day with. My husband asked me today how it felt to be 30 and I told him I didn't know yet because I have 2 more days of being 29!
By the way, fellow bloggers, I love reading your blogs and feel so close to so many of you---I do only get on blogger about once a week so if I don't comment you regularly, it's not because I'm not reading---I just might not have the time right then, but know that I am enjoying reading and trying to stay caught up!
And a special thanks to Kelly's Korner for starting the prayer blog---what an encouragement! I admire her so much for having such a heart for those of us still struggling and can truly see the Love of Christ and His love for people displayed in her life. Thanks Kelly!
Blessings to all of you!