#blessed

My birthday happens to be National Hug Day.
So naturally, we had to take a picture commemorating it!

Two weeks ago my dad emailed me, asking me what I wanted for my birthday. At the time, my sister was touring Europe with my mom before beginning her semester-long internship in London. I told my dad that I wanted a plane ticket to Europe, but that I was just kidding. Except for that I wasn't. But let's be realistic here. 

I celebrated my birthday this past week and was definitely spoiled by family and friends, most especially by my sweet guy. It all began on my birthday eve when, upon finishing up dinner, I told him that I just wanted to go take a hot lavender-salt bath.  He told me he would clean up from dinner and that I was to not worry about a thing. My body and mind thanked me as my muscles relaxed after a heavy day of stretching and yoga.  

The next day I did not see Marshall until 6:20 PM. I began my day with a lovely yoga session in my living room, my favorite breakfast of eggs, greens, and sweet potatoes, and then coached one class at the rink. It was a day spent in sweats, no make-up, and I spoiled myself with a leisurely walk in the snow and no errands to run. 

When Marshall returned home, all I wanted from him was to dance. Dancing with him releases my inner child and I feel free. We danced hard for 25 minutes while dinner cooked and the energy running through me was contagious. Too bad we had to stop for dinner. 

Marshall made a yummy dinner of Texas style brisket, mashed root vegetables, crispy kale, and fresh sourdough bread.  I made Sacher Torte, an Austrian style chocolate torte glazed with apricot preserves and a chocolate ganache icing for my birthday treat. The torte, however, would be served the next day with a small group of friends. 

Trying to steal my food...and I'm not going to let him get away with it:)

As I opened each of my presents, a smile spread across my face. From the mandolin slicer to the 2016 wall calendar, each item was something I truly wanted and could use. A few other dear friends dropped by with extremely thoughtful gifts during the evening, all leaving me speechless inside. When I was done opening gifts, Marshall handed me an envelop from my dad. Inside was a print out of a travel itinerary for Paris. I thought it was a joke. Seriously. But it wasn't. I literally got a plane ticket to join my parents and baby sister in Europe for 10 days this summer! 

Looking back on the past couple of days of birthday celebrations, I can't help but feel loved. It was a good reminder to me of the inherent love my mom and dad and friends have for me. They could have easily forgotten that it was my birthday, but instead, they went out of the way to make me feel extra loved and important. 

I love each one of you and am so grateful for the influence you each have on my life. Thank you all!

Here's to 26 being my BEST YEAR YET!