And even more birthday fun!

One of the best things about 2012, were the new friends I made.  I feel ridiculously fortunate to have been offered a job that offers intellectual stimulation coupled with work life balance.  I also have been so fortunate to have met and pretty much instantly bonded with an amazing group of moms from Zach's school.  So..... we rented an SUV along with a driver for the day and went wine tasting.  Maybe it was the sun, or the wine - or the combo; it did get a little out of control - but we wouldn't have it any other way.

Birthday Time

So ... since I am writing blogs in April for the month of February - I can easily reflect back with a sense of humor much more than I would have been able to, had I been in the moment.  Josh planned on being away for 1-2 weeks (at the most) for a trial in San Diego.  One week turned into two, two turned into three - three turned into seven.  Yes, my  husband came home each Friday night to Sunday morning, but the man was gone for seven weeks, including my birthday.  And for the first time in my life I had no one to make my birthday special except for me - so I am pretty sure that is the reason it was quite fabulous.  Jeremy and I went to celebrate with Zach at school.  Then, my friends at work had the most adorable cupcake stand and lunch waiting for me when I arrived.  For dinner, my mom, dad, and I celebrated at Mastro's.  The three of us had not been to dinner together for so many years, I have completely lost track.  Then we had cupcakes an candles with the boys and their grandmom!  Josh surprised me with an afternoon gift certificate to the Four Seasons.  For those of you that know me well, I pretty much despise my birthday; not this year!  It was wonderful!!

Valentine's Day Party @ School

By far, one of the most fulfilling roles I have taken on this year is volunteering in Zach's classroom.  I feel like I would do it every day if I could. For now, I am in there one Monday a week and for parties.  I can't resist the parties.  For Valentine's Day, we made pancakes and exchanged notes.  I also ordered a backdrop and some props for the kids.  We really had a great time.