Happy birthday, Suki Su!

Yesterday was one of my very best friend's birthdays! My darling Sarah turned 29, and we celebrated in style at La Bocca Pizzeria in Tempe. I decided to drive down just for dinner, and it was really fun to surprise her! Her boyfriend Andy got all of her closest friends together for the dinner party and it was just such a fantasic time. Henry came along too of course, and he was such a good baby. I was a bit stressed bringing him, since La Bocca is one of those restaurants with a quieter ambiance at night- candles, low light, and lots of couples on dates...but he was wonderful and only cried for a short time. Other than that he was in heaven being held, and of course seeing his Auntie Suki. There was a ton of good food, and the evening was topped off with a birthday tiramisu! Everyone else went out in Tempe afterward, but my little man and I hopped back on the I-17 and headed up the mountain home to papa. It was such a fabulous night though, and it made me so, so happy to be able to spend Sarah's birthday with her. She's the kindest, most loyal, wonderful friend in the world and I love putting a smile on her face. Happy birthday to you Sar, I love you always!

Here are a few photos from the evening:

Happy birthday, Madeline!

You are my best friend and I couldn't imagine our life without you. You are the constant sunshine in my day, and you are truly the sweetest pup in the entire world. Thank you for being such a darling companion. I will always take care of you, and try to show you as much love as you unconditionally show me every day.

Happy 2nd birthday, little lady!

Sweet Darlin'

Today was a great day...specifically because Autumn gave birth to beautiful Carter! He was born at 3:21am, weighing 7lbs 13 oz, and is 20 inches long. He is the most adorable little thing in the entire world, and I love that the Loops are home in Arizona so I could actually be here to see him on his "birthday." I am so proud of Autumn and I am such a proud aunt! I love you Carter! I also have to mention how heart-warming it was to hear Chloe yell "Auuunntiiiie Daniiieeeellllle!!" and come running over to me when she arrived. It's so neat to see her growing into this little person. My heart is so full of love.



I am so proud of the new mama!


my second family...aren't they adorable?


staticky balloon hair


Happy birthday!


tiiiired...also- black and white because my devil red eye couldn't be fixed. ugh :(


hey big sister!


proud Grammy


I also snuck away and got a quick little tattoo on my thighs. I had gone back and forth between getting script there- I wasn't sure if I would like it "cutting off" my legs, but since I'll be finishing the front, back and sides pretty soon, I think it will look okay. I alllmost got it on the side of my neck but then came to my senses. It'll be a little bit longer until I can do that. Anyway, here's the photo! I love it. :)

(don't worry, I had shorts under my dress ;) )


freshly done and a little swollen


I am so excited about tomorrow. Hank works during the day, so I will be spending my time doing some projects around the house and probably baking a few sweet treats. I can't wait for our dinner date when he gets off! I will be back tomorrow with my final couples posts (be sure to check out Erin's feature here) and more than likely a regular entry. I hope all of you have a fabulous "Valentine's Eve!" Sweet dreams.