I’ve been feeling down lately…really missing Maddie, Jackie, and Rigby. There are times when I feel their absences more acutely than others, and this is one of those times. I wasn’t even all that excited about my birthday, which if you know me, is out of character. Knowing this, Mike really went out to make sure I had a great weekend.
On Friday night, he took me out to dinner at one of my favorite restaurants. He told me to get all gussied up, something I rarely do these days. I have to admit, getting dressed up was nice.
He also encouraged me to have friends over on Saturday. I didn’t want it to be a birthday party, but I was definitely excited by the idea of having friends over. We decided to have a backyard movie night (we rented everything from this cool LA company, Joymode), and I decided to try to get some of my creative mojo back by making little cars for the kids to sit in so they could pretend they were at a drive in movie.
(SO easy to make – just a cardboard box, with glued on paper plates as wheels and headlights).
We also arranged a little concession area:
The movie set up was great – very comfortable for everyone. I was so happy that the kids loved their cars!
After a lot of back and forth, we decided to show “Rookie of the Year,” perfect for our group of baseball-loving kids.
Although, the three year olds were WAY more into watching the popcorn pop.
Also, even though I’d been adamant about it NOT being a birthday party, Mike still surprised me with birthday pie:
Pie is superior to cake, and I cannot be convinced otherwise.
After our guests left, we let Annie and James watch more of the movie while Mike and I cleaned up.
…but they didn’t last long:
Mike was right – having friends over was just what I needed.
It’s a great start to another year of my life – hopefully this one improves (a lot) upon the last.
samatwitch says:
What a great idea for a party – and cute ‘cars’ for the kids. I’m glad it helped you have a good start to your next year. And even though I, like Annie, do not involve myself with pie – at least not as a birthday dessert – I’m glad for you that Mike did on your behalf. Best wishes for a wonderful year ahead, Heather.
Nellie says:
You looked gorgeous and what a fantastic idea/theme! You never cease to amaze me.
Sending loving, happy, and healthy wishes for you and your beautiful family today and for years to come.
Jeanie says:
I’m happy you had a good one, and you look fabulous in that spiffy dress.
Z says:
Yes! You got involved with pie! I definitely agree that it’s the obvious dessert choice. Happy birthday, and cheers to a great 37!
Glenda says:
Looks like a great start to the next year!!!
Lisa says:
Love that you surrounded yourself with family and friends.
MG says:
I’ve not been on your blog in a while so I was scrolling through posts a bit and came across this one. I didn’t realize Rigby was gone…..so sad, I’m sorry. And, I still think about your Maddie quite often. There are a couple people I know (IRL and online) that lost little ones and it’s really left a mark on my heart. I sure people in your life remind you of this all the time but she is certainly not forgotten. Hope your summer is well. And, happy very belated bday.