It's official, as I'm sitting here writing this I have made it around the calendar one more year. I'm older and wiser...well, older for sure. Wiser? The jury may still be out on that one. I had a wonderful celebration ringing in my newest year, and am deeply grateful to all who reached out whether it was a post on Facebook, a call, a text; it was incredible to feel all of that love.

We started the celebratory festivities on Sunday night with a great hibachi dinner at a great local spot called Kobe. I'm a big fan of the teppanyaki style of cooking, where they make everything right in front of you. I was also enjoying some delicious pear sake:

It was a great group of friends, lots of laughs and the food was delicious. There were quite a few birthdays being celebrated that night - mine was the most fun, of course. :-)

On Monday, I went to pick up Ellen, my best friend from college, at the airport. She only had a short window of time to come visit, but I am so grateful she made the trip to be here. Although the weather was a bit rainy, we still couldn't keep our laughter in as is typical with Ellen and I whenever we're together.

Ellen and I were then treated to some incredible pedicures! Thanks so much, Tina!!

Mine are on the bottom - and yes, I did get my toenails painted...and YES, THEY SPARKLE! :-) I seem to love the color blue, so why not have a little fun with it.

To finish off the evening Brian joined us for some cake and a mini-party at my place in which some alcohol may or may not have been consumed, and we played a few games and laughed hysterically. All in all, we had lots of fun.

:-)

Don't we look thrilled? :-)

Even though I said it already, I'll still say it again: Thank you so much to Tina, Ellen, Brian, Maurice, Mary, and everyone that reached out and made me feel special on my birthday. I am so grateful to have friends like you and can't wait to see what the future brings!