Best Mother's Day Gift Ever

I was born on Mother's Day--31 (gulp!) years ago.  Cool, huh?  Growing up, my mom always told me that I was her "best Mother's Day gift ever!"  This year was my first Mother's Day with my very own child and my birthday was just a few days later.  I felt very special all week and oh-so grateful to be a mom.  Here are a few pictures to document the big events:

Thanks for making me a mom, Ella! (at my in-laws for Mother's Day)

Ella in her Easter dress from my parents

I was also surprised with an early birthday cake made by my very talented sister-in-law Marci.  Impressive, right?

Later in the week, some friends here in Evanston threw a girl's night birthday get-together for me.  We made delicious deep dish pizza and had my new favorite frozen yogurt.  Such a fun night!

I am so grateful to have such fun, nice friends here

For my birthday, Chris also made me a book--the most thoughtful gift I've ever received.  We also got to go on 2 dates this week thanks to friends who offered to babysit.  All in all, a great week!