Why yes, it's February!

In case you have gotten this far into the month and didn't know, let me fill you in that it's February! And I had a birthday (just a reminder, in case you forgot to flip your calendar and you aren't a Facebook friend). And what a wonderful birthday it was! I was shown lots of love and the celebration is continuing all week, maybe all month!

For my birthday, some friends and family (knowingly and unknowingly) gave me some of my favorite things, so I thought I'd share what some of those are (with one new favorite that I didn't receive as gift added in just for fun).

1. Red tulips, pretty monogrammed mug and a pretty notebook/journal, greeting cards
These were some of the things I received from my coworkers and it was a fun day of being celebrated with sweet gifts and sweet treats!

2. Mitford books
My mom gave me some of the books in the Mitford series that I didn't own in hardcover. I think this now completes my collection and fulfills my desire to own all of the books in hardcover and softcover (don't ask me why). Mom also took me out to lunch to one of my favorite restaurants, Zoe's Kitchen! Thanks, Mom!

3. Burt's Bees Lip Shimmer in Fig shade
This is my most-recent favorite lip product. It is easy to apply without a mirror, gives a nice color, and also makes my lips feel protected. All good things! Thanks to my sister and family for sending me a new tube for my birthday!

4. Sometimes when I'm trying to think of places to go out to eat, I completely forget about CPK, another one of my favorites! My friends, Debbie, Cathy and Tiffanie took me out for dinner on my birthday and we shared a yummy meal of White Corn Guacamole and Chips, Margherita pizza, Cobb salad, and Tiramisu!

5. Trader Joe's Dark Chocolate Almonds
My friend, Rachel, must have a secret talent for knowing what someone likes without being told. I love these almonds and have to sometimes not let myself buy them when I go shopping at Trader Joe's because I know that they won't last long at my house! I must admit I had some for breakfast (with my oatmeal and turkey bacon), but I only ate a serving size . . . this time!

6. Lauren Daigle
If you have not heard of this new artist, you probably will soon hear her song, "How Can It Be" on Christian radio. I downloaded her EP and find myself singing the songs in my head or just feeling like I "have to" listen to them right now. Enjoy the video of "How Can It Be" and look for her other songs on iTunes or other places where you buy music.



Since this has become a pretty long post, I'll stop for now, but I will do my best to write a little more often this month and not wait until March!