A new age

Today I hit the “quarter-of-a-century” marker. So far, I have been able to enjoy breakfast with Brandon, opening a few gifts, and my co-workers singing “Happy Birthday” to me, and nearly every one else coming in the office said it as well. The other ladies in the office also got some fancy chocolate cakes—one with a cinnamon chocolate icing, and the other was chocolate with coconut and lemon (I think). Needless to say, it has already been a special birthday.
Before any of this happened though, I had a few minutes to think about how the last (or first) 25 years of my life have been. As I thought about this, I realized that God has been so gracious to me—infinitely more than I can even recall. What I did recall in those few minutes is that I have an extraordinary family (in all senses of the word). Of course my family has recently expanded greatly, and I am also very thankful for them.
**I had to stop writing at this point yesterday, and now today (the day after my birthday) I am going to tell you how wonderful my birthday turned out to be.**
When I got home, Brandon was not there. I thought he had already left for work. I called him, and he was at our neighbor's. He said he did not have to work until 5:30 and would be home shortly. To make a long story short he actually did not have to work. We went out to dinner at The Cheesecake Factory, went to the pet store to look at fish tanks (we're getting a fish!) and then went to Uche and Meliss'a apartment. I knew that we were going to have dessert with them, but what I did not know was that some of our other friends would be there too! I was really surprised to walk in and find that our party of four had more than doubled! We hung out and ate more yummy cake--this time one that Melissa made. This came at just the right time, too, because I have recently been feeling sad about missing everyone at home. This was a great way to get over that little hump (I still miss you guys, though!).
All day I felt really appreciated and loved. I am thankful for birthdays because they are usually good opportunities to reflect on life, family, and friends. It also means we get extra chocolate :o)