Happy Birthday, Maria!

Today is Maria's birthday. For lunch we all went to The Yardhouse to celebrate. It was beautiful outside, so we had a great time under an umbrella on the patio. After coloring and eating and coloring some more, waving to the people in the kiddie train each time it came by, watching the kids running through the water feature with the spurting streams, staying OUT of the water because we had no change of clothes, sampling the freebies from Ben & Jerry's - what a great idea! - and getting coupons for our next visit, we all headed home. I made a quick "treat for Rose" run through Crate & Barrel to see the latest Marimekko prints and other fun items, and went home with a smile on my face. It was delightful to remember 35 years ago today when Maria was born. She has graced our lives with love and joy and beauty and caring. She's a super wife, a phenomenal mom, a talented teacher, a caring friend, an involved & compassionate volunteer, and a wonderful daughter. We are richly blessed by our children and their families. How lucky we are!