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My family made me feel very special and loved on my birthday; in fact, I told Ryan this was the best birthday I've ever had.  He and the kids worked hard to clean the house and make me dinner while I took a long nap the day before my birthday.  We did most of the celebrating on Sunday, since Monday evenings (my actual birthday) are pretty chaotic with kid activities.  I have the sweetest kids in the world.  This Logan Royboy is so cuddly and compassionate.  The kid honestly gives me 20 hugs and kisses every day while gently telling me he loves me.  He is so empathetic when people are sad or sick, and can brighten up even my worst days.

The kids each got me a present that had to do with exercise.  Perfect!  I needed some new weights, plus they gave me new workout videos and a kettlebell.  I've been in horrible pain ever since.

Brynlie made these low-fat cupcakes so I wouldn't jeopardize my diet.  They tasted very yummy, since I hadn't had sugar in quite a while!

On Monday, my actual birthday, some of my awesome friends surprised me with lunch at Panera.  I am constantly amazed that I've been blessed with such fun, trustworthy friends.  I can't express my gratitude for these sweet girls (as well as many other good friends who weren't able to join us).

I got to hold Barbara's brand-new baby.  Logan was so gentle and soft with her.  He loves babies more than any kid I've ever seen, including my girls.  He's such a sweetheart, and tiny Ismayla is just precious.

Stephanie (one of my visiting teachers) and Jeanine, who helped arrange the lunch.

Brandi, one of my newer friends who moved to Missouri recently.  Her little guy Dane was being camera-shy.  Brandi and her husband, Alan, are trying to adopt a baby, in case anyone reading this blog wants to help them find the new addition by spreading the word.

My funny Brenda (who also helped plan the lunch), and mom-of-5 Barbara.

Isn't she super cute?  I tried to convince her to deliver her baby boy on my birthday, but Andrew arrived 2 days later.  She is now the adorable mom of 4 kids.

Most of the friends that joined me for a celebration . . .Brandi (and Dane), Jenn (and Davis and Jocelyn), Stephanie, Jeanine, Jill (and Evan), Barbara (and Ismayla), Christine, me, Tiffany (and Violet) and Brenda.  Thank you, girls!  You know how to make me feel loved.