Wonderful Weekend!

This was such a lovely weekend. My friend, Staci arrived Friday afternoon and we got ready to go out to dinner with friends. We went to a beautiful old Inn that serves a chef's multi course dinner. You do not order off a menu. Rather, the chef prepares a five course meal for all of the guests. Let's just say they wine was flowing, laughter was abundant and we had a great time. I do feel bad for those couples who were seated near us because we were not quiet. I hope we did not ruin any romantic dinners.

Saturday, Staci and I spent most of the day at a spa getting facials and massages. I began telling my friend Staci (very quietly I might add) about an episode of Brothers and Sisters when the characters get kicked out of the quiet room at a spa. I had just begun telling Staci the story in the quiet room at our spa, when an older woman STORMED out and shouted, "It is supposed to be the QUIET room!" The other women (who were also quietly chatting) looked at us and we were all in shock. I must say it was quite entertaining. I think that woman really needed her massage.

After our first treatments, we were back in the quiet room with new people who were also chatting, so I did not feel too bad.

After the spa, we met my friend, Shannon at a beautiful winery for some wine, a cheese plate, pumpkin soup and good conversation. It was a crisp and beautiful fall afternoon to sit outside and have wine with friends.

When we got home, the boys had a special surprise planned. Will had made a "popcorn cake" from a kids cookbook. Harry had planned a "birthday parade." They marched into the living room and sang and gave me many presents (jewelry baubles, a car monogram, Uggs, warm fuzzy bed jacket). My favorite part though was when they each shared what they love about me. It was adorable and made me cry. Then Harry came over with a small bottle of Holy Water that his teacher gave him and blessed me on the forehead. It was so sweet. We bless each other most nights as a little ritual that is special just to him and me. It made my heart sing that he included that in the birthday parade.

Sunday morning we had reservations to go to a very nice place for my favorite brunch. However, little Katie Ru was very sick so we cancelled. Staci, Harry and I ended up going to a local breakfast place for omelets on the way to take her to the airport. I loved every single minute of my "pre-birthday" weekend. It was perfect.

I did take Kate to the pediatrician this afternoon (yes, our doctor office is open on Sunday). She has a very bad cold and high fever but it appears to be nothing serious. She is just miserable though. As for my health... I have an appointment with a specialist in a few weeks (so many of you have asked--thank you).