Happy Birthday to ME!

Another year, another birthday? I suppose, but this one was awesome!!! I had to spend last year's fat and pregnant. This year, I couldn't blame the extra weight on a baby (well, not exactly), but at least I got to enjoy the day a little more than the last one. We decided a few months ago that since Counting Crows/Maroon 5 would be in Indianapolis on my birthday, it would be the perfect reason for a much delayed trip to visit Natasha and Keith.

Seeing as how we never do it halfway, it ended up being a full-fledged party when Mike and Jimmy decided to join the party. Add in Lydia celebrating with us and we were complete!

Riley and I flew out on Wed. and Kevin joined later that night. Although flying solo with Riley wasn't how I envisioned the voyage, it turned out better than expected and, sweaty and exhausted, I survived. I also realized that complete strangers can be really gracious. I had people helping me left and right and although I expected everyone to shoot daggers in my direction (assuming Riley would be loud), I got nothing but happy glances and nice exchanges. I have to say it renewed my faith in humanity.

The trip itself was so fun! I have amazing friends and I count this group among some of my best. It was great finally seeing the land of Natasha instead of envisioning her in her palace from afar. The Irish pub/restaurant that they own was so flippin' amazing. The patio goes down as one of my favorite stops on the trip.

And the birthday itself? Superb. For real. The concert was great as usual (I've seen CC 8 times now), the converstaion and company outstanding. I love that I always learn new things about people that I adore. My friends rented a bouncy castle for my birthday!!!! How cool is that? Pair it with my rainbow cake, Hannah Montana banner and plates, and a ton of great food and it was definitely one to remember.

Oh yeah, and the shopping didn't hurt either. Many thanks to all who made it happen. I really love my friends!!! I hope a repeat is in the planners as we speak. Here's a couple pics and a quick video of Riley bouncing and loving it. There are better pics to see, but Natasha hasn't sent them and I decided not to wait. Maybe I'll present more soon....