The Big 3Oh

Who else can say that their most recent family picture looks like this:

That's right, they put my little miss Emerson in a carebear outfit.  My sister crimped my sister-in-law's hair, Ker went tennis prep- and his shoes were brilliant, mom was Cyndi in black and Dad did the rolled up blazer and high tops.  I have the best family ever.  And an excellent college roomie, who flew up from DC, helped mom, made sure I ate and took this lovely family picture.

And what a couple of weeks it's been.  Emers and Missy sent me a message pre-flight of that naughty Kevin saying they'd see me soon and as soon as she got to mom and dad's, they put her to work.  You should have seen her taking care of the potatoes...

She helped grandma soooo much!

The party was just what it needed to be-- we were all together.  Mom and her minions outdid themselves on the food--it was absurdly delicious, Lau's playlist was sublime, and there was just enough 30th decor to be obnoxious.

I know that I spend a blog out of every few reminding myself to be grateful, but I think there's another important thing that I realized.  It's something that my parents have been trying to hit home for the past thirty years: life's about what you give, not what you get.

I've given a little time and effort to bake something for some people I care about...

 Nan and I did a lemon meringue pie the day after the party with Nellie's assistance-- someone had to read the pudding box



I've taken a little time to learn some family recipes... Nan's pie crust is something that no one can do-- so I'm going to the master to get a little remedial work.



It really is so little that I've given.

 Flour, eggs, sugar and shortening...

And I've gotten so much...

 
Rice cereal time with Emers...  and seeing her wear my favorite outfit for her sixth month pic.

 A pandora bracelet with gorgeous charms in my favorite color.

Cake and chocolate covered pretzels from the kids and their families.

 The best cake I've ever eaten, ordered by my faculty friends- chocolate chiffon with marscapone layers and chocolate ganache frosting.

 The cards and gift cards...

 The presents-- gardening and cooking... my friends and family know me so well...

 And the vino.

And from the nurse and PA, a break from the cakes.

I know that the joy is in us, not things, but I'm still floored by the thoughtfulness...

On the burners for this week-- did a chocolate pie for fac on Monday, but didn't have time for pics.
Have the pleasure of making pusties for Lovely Rita's benefit this weekend, a pecan and a raspberry pie for dad's birthday...

I'll have more party pics for you all when I get the ok from the subjects in question.

I'll be going back to completely from scratch after these last two papers are in and I'll be updating you on the beer as soon as I've figured it all out and the running as soon as I hit my three mile times/ have any other news!

Be well.  See you soon!