One Year Older

Back in the beginning of January was my birthday.  Even though it was really low-key, it was a wonderful birthday.  I didn't have to work that day, so I was able to spend my time at home with my family.  I was able to take a nap while Ann was at preschool, and I got to go out to dinner with Tom that evening.

Tom's mom helped Ann blow up some balloons.  Both Ann and Ian had a blast playing with those balloons for a long time

Posing with a balloon

He loved to carry the balloons around, but I had to be careful to make sure he didn't chew on them

He still loves to climb up on these bar chairs.  Le sigh

Playing on the couch

My sweet darling boy

And my sweet, crazy, loving girl :)

All three of my loves

Ann wanted to use the camera and take a picture of me

Ann helped me make my cake.  Any guesses on how old I turned?

Tom's parents bought me these beautiful flowers

Tom and I went out to eat the Cheesecake Factory.  We had gotten some gift cards from my brother for Christmas, so we figured this was a good use for them.

We had my cake after we came back from dinner.  Tom's parents watched the kids for us and had them all ready for bed when we got home.  As we were coming in the house, I could hear Ann yelling "mom and dad are home!" and Ian excitingly saying "mama!!".  Those kids sure now how to make me feel loved :)

Simple and peaceful - just the way I like it