the big three-o

I am still working on writing Vivian’s birth story, which I will post soon. But for now I want to share what a wonderful day I had yesterday celebrating my thirtieth birthday.

Since my original due date was July 28^th, I immediately wondered if I would be spending this milestone in the hospital. Because that was a real possibility, I told Phil not to worry about trying to plan some kind of big surprise party. The day ended up being the best I could have hoped for – at home with my whole family including one healthy baby.

In the morning we did a little family photo shoot with my friend Emily, who is a great photographer and fellow mom. Thanks Emily! Later, Phil took Liam to the library for some one-on-one time and I brought Vivian with me to the mall for my first birthday present, a much-needed haircut! It was such a treat. Then she and I walked around using all the free birthday coupons I get from signing up for store mailing lists. Gotta love a shopping trip for freebies! I have to admit, I really enjoyed walking around slowly so that everyone I passed could smile at us and tell me how cute she was.

At home Phil and Liam surprised me with some gifts – plants for the garden and a new camera bag I have been wanting. My guys are so sweet to me! Liam was very proud of the musical card he picked out. He sang happy birthday to me several times.

That evening my parents came up and we met up with Tim and AnneMarie and the twins for dinner at Agua Verde on Lake Union. It was exactly what I wanted. It was an hour wait for a table but we expected that and I didn’t mind at all because it has got to be one of the best places to have to wait. We sat on the dock and watched the boats and seaplanes and people kayaking and paddle boarding. There was a live band playing and it was the perfect temperature out. I couldn’t ask for more. To top it off, we ended up getting the very best table, right on the edge of the balcony. The food was just as great as the view and we ate until the sun set. After dinner we went back home and had a camp fire in our back yard and made s’mores. It was a wonderful day and I am so thankful to have such a great family and an amazing husband that make me feel so loved. I can’t believe how blessed I am.

Vivian and me all dressed up for dinner

Girls matching in green

She used to fit right there