The birthday came and the birthday went. Thanksgiving was here and now its gone. Both events were lovely.

The birthday party went off without a hitch. We had a combined party with our roommate who also shares the same day of birth. We wore matching shirts, glitter party hats and red lipstick. We put lights up in the backyard, built a fire in the fire pit, made a crock pot full of chili, and loaded an ice chest with beers. Friends we’ve known for years and friends we’d just met came to celebrate with us. It was a celebration indeed.

Toward the end of the night, as the party guest were trickling out, and the fire was beginning to grow weary, there were those few who stayed and watched the fire disappear with us. While we roasted what was left of the marshmallows, and drank what was left of the beer, they began to go around and give speeches for the birthday girls (something we make mandatory at any birthday party we attend, especially my own). Funny stories were told, embarrassing secrets exposed, and inside jokes that only a few people knew were laughed at. Kind loving and heartfelt words were spoken. They told me how much they loved me and what our friendship has meant to them, they said they have loved watching me grow into the Mother I’ve become. Those who have known me the longest said how thankful they are that I am here, and that I have a 29th birthday to celebrate. Those words brought tears to my eyes, because I was incredibly thankful too.

The next day we slept in, stayed in our pajamas till noon, and  met up with friends for a picnic in Golden Gate park. We ate cheese, salami, grapes, and bread, and shared a bottle of champagne. The sky was clear and the sun was warm, everything was perfect. After our lunch we walked through the Conservatory of Flowers. Something I have always wanted to do, and Casey was sure to make it happen on my birthday. It was beautiful. Everything was lush and green, the colors of the bushes and flowers were neon to our dull eyes. The air thick and moist, creating the illusion of a rain forrest. The little one loved it. She touched all the flowers, and tried to put her feet in every pond. She loved watching the little fish swim around and the butterflies dance. She was mesmerized.

It was a wonderful day and a wonderful birthday. I really do have so much to be thankful for. And I am.

Some photos of our day at the park with our dear friends Kelly and Tyler.