My birthday. The one day out of each year that is my very own holiday dedicated to celebrating me. As a child I could hardly wait for my special day. My mom would start the countdown of “shopping days” until my birthday at least a month prior to the occasion. She continued this tradition even when I went away to college, sending me postcards labeled with the number of days remaining throughout the weeks before my big day. I have many wonderful memories of birthday celebrations with really great gifts. The hot pink Huffy two-wheeler with a banana seat and

Out in my yard today… the high according to my thermometer was 82 this afternoon! Our peach and plum trees are in full bloom. I’m grateful for… celebrations with good friends, sunshine, and a fresh start every morning. One of my favorite things… is watching the birds in our backyard. We’ve had a bird bath in our yard for a few years now, but this is the first spring that I’ve really seen any birds using it. Too cool! This week I’m reading… the second half of Her Mother’s Hope. I went to Barnes & Noble with my oldest daughter

Out in my yard today… it rained most of the morning, but now it is snowing!!! Grrrr…just another crazy spring day in Idaho. However, the daffodils are blooming in my front yard- they are so bright and cheerful! I’m grateful for… Easter dinner with family, a warm home, marshmallow-filled chocolate eggs, and an opening day win for the Red Sox over the Yankees! One of my favorite things… eating popcorn and watching movies with my family. Romantic comedies top my list, but a little drama, action and intrigue are also good. This week I’m reading… Her Mother’s Hope by Francine

Out in my yard today… sunny clear blue sky, no wind, and a warm 58 degrees. I found these in my front yard a few days ago. I’m grateful for… good health, sunshine, and spring break! One of my favorite things… fuzzy, furry socks- I don’t like to wear shoes in the house and these keep my feet warm and cozy. This week I’m reading… actually I just finished reading Austenland by Shannon Hale, a fun read for fans of Pride and Prejudice. It is my turn to pick the next book for our book club, so I am researching