2 Big Things in 1 Little Night

1. Chris took me to see Phantom of the Opera in Vegas. He got the tickets for my birthday, and we went last night. I had only ever seen the movie, per Jenny's urging. I'm usually too much of a cynic to enjoy anything this dramatic or fantastic or romantic. Which I think is why I can't get into the Twilight books, and why I annoy myself and others with comments like "oh please" during TV shows and movies. I actually decided the other day that I want to be less cynical and more romantic...who'll teach me? I digress. Phantom of the Opera has been the only exception to my cynicism. I've watched the movie about a thousand times, each time feeling totally romanced by the Phantom or Raoul or even Christine (that actress is ridiculously beautiful). So seeing the show last night, I was like a kid on the edge of my seat the whole time and either smiling huge or crying at any given point. It was awesome.

2. We left Olive with a babysitter for the first time. The Pionkes generously agreed to hang out with her while we went on our hot date. I held back the tears long enough to hang on to some dignity in front of Amber, but as soon as we got in the car they spilled over. Chris stopped the car and said a little prayer and we were on our way. I think the prayer helped a bunch because I was able to relax and have a good time. I did miss her, and I wasn't disappointed that the show was over in under 2 hours.

So there you have it, our 2 big things in 1 little night.

Memorial Day Weekend in Utah and a Surprise Party For Me

Mother's Day Part II - My First Time

Here's what we woke up to on Mother's Day morning (sorry about your bed, Uncle John):


After we put that fire out, Chris gave me a card from Olive and him (which was the 2nd best part of the day). He also gave me the first 2 seasons of Friday Night Lights, and I was delighted about that. We went to church; I always love hearing the Primary sing on Mother's Day, and this time it was especially sweet. The rest of the day was a lot of relaxing and enjoying Nestor's cooking, and this (the very best part of my Mother's Day):



A great first Mother's Day.

Mother's Day Part I - Surprising Rosemary

We went to Goodyear on a bit of a whim and surprised Rosemary for Mother's Day. Watch this! (Sorry it's sideways; I'm a moron!)

30

I'm 30 now. Have been for almost 24 hours. Can't say it feels different than 29.

The Toveys and the Pionkes came all the way to Havasu to celebrate with us. We played in the pool, ate, demanded good service everywhere we went, and talked and laughed, and I enjoyed it a lot. I have great friends. They all left on Monday night, and then yesterday - the big day - Chris made me breakfast and presented me with tickets to see Phantom of the Opera in Vegas. I'm really looking forward to that. I was also showered with texts and phone calls and emails from family and friends. Thanks for remembering!

Here's Merick helping me blow my candles out.

Immodest little Olive and Harley.

Merick was really enjoying his Thrifty's ice cream cone.

Here's everyone minus me in the pool (left to right: Olive, Amber, Mike, Harley, Chris, Craig, and Karly).

Everyone except Karly (taking the picture) at dinner on Monday night.