Okay, so my birthday wasn’t actually on a weekend, but seeing as I was born the day before a national holiday, I always count my birthday and Independence Day as my birthday “weekend.”

This year’s birthday was my first living away from Kansas City. The last two years I’ve spent my birthday focused on other things, so this year it was nice to spend the day relaxing and enjoying life. Jake had to work, but Auntie Carol and I went to lunch, did a little shopping, and went to see an ab-filled movie (I do love Channing Tatum, but could have done without the nearly X-rated content of the Magic Mike film).

Once Jake was off work, we all gathered for a birthday dinner and mini-celebration at Auntie and Tio’s house in San Rafael. Complete with what, you ask? A Tio cake, of course! That’s right folks, this year, for my first birthday as a Californian, I got my very own Tio cake. Apparently, he was nice to me for my first year. He’s been known to include things such as broccoli, electronics, and who knows what else. I got a spiced cake with licorice, and the only parts we couldn’t eat were the two mini-candle holders he used for my blue eyes.

After dinner, we watched fireworks from their deck. Then finished off the night with a game of Parcheesi. It was the perfect way to spend the day. I took this picture of the fireworks, which looks REALLY out of focus, but I thought it turned out fairly artistic.

Thank you to everyone who wished me a happy birthday. It was a wonderful day. I’m sorry I didn’t get to see all of my amazing friends and family, but I miss all of you, and it was so great to hear from you. I hope you all enjoyed the 4th and are having a fabulous summer!