a birthday boy

The Goates came into town for Paul's birthday weekend, and since it snowed Friday, my lacrosse practice was cancelled Saturday, so we all headed into the city together. It warmed up pretty nicely and we had a lovely day there.

The American Girl Doll store is nuts. You can pay (a lot of money) to have the dolls hair done.
The moms, daughters, and dolls all match.

Even their bathrooms are like a dollhouse.

I loved this bouncer/balloon combo.

Mmmmm Magnolia.

 >>>>

Sunday was the actual birthday day (and how mean is it that Daylight Savings happened and cut Paul, Chelsey, Ian and Isaac's birthday's short by an hour?!).

Marian helped me cook Paul an omelet for breakfast in bed. Then Paul opened presents and I was so thrilled to have him open the Mongolia book I made him that was a total surprise (he never lets me pull off surprises).

We headed to church and enjoyed that, then a quick chicken salad on croissant lunch before heading to my band concert. :) I play Tuba in a community band and Paul was so nice to give up an hour or two of his day to hear my perform.

We headed back to our little apartment and had dinner (Donna's delicious ribs recipe - my first time making them) then went on a little walk outside before having cake (bavarian tort, a Frandsen speciality).

Reuby wanted to help with the cake and did a great job knowing all his letters and helping me arrange them.

And if I may... I'm going to take a quick moment to sing the praises of that birthday boy. I'm so glad I have him. He makes life joyful, and fun, and meaningful. He supports me and loves me. We balance each other out. He is interesting, thoughtful, dedicated and hardworking and bonus! ...he has great hair.
I hope you had a great birthday PB. I love you.

In addition, lacrosse has begun!
Tuesday's practice started out rainy but then we got this rainbow and had our warmest day yet.

On Wednesday, the girls gave me a fish. Named Franny.
They are so goofy and fun to be around (most the time but sometimes teenage girls can drive me nuts too).

 ok bye.