Happy, happy birthday baby...

Today was Ken's 40th birthday!  We celebrated most of the day because it's not every day one turns the big 4-0, right? His day started with a parade of little feet marching into the bedroom to bring him gifts and breakfast in bed.  (He even looks good first thing in the morning, doesn't he?)
After a fun filled morning of celebrating with the kids, we went to church and then picked up sandwiches from his favorite deli.  Ken thought that we would be ending our day with a date night while our neighbors watched the little ones.  However, we actually ended the day with a surprise party!  A few of our wonderfully generous and kind neighbors helped me (e.i. they did all the work) plan a party for Ken and it was great!  I think he was truly surprised!  The party was complete with fun, friends, decorations, great food and lots of birthday cake.  We even had a poster size (slightly embarrassing) picture of Ken in his "hayday".  The kids played in the backyard while 80's music jammed in the background.    Good times.  Here's a few pictures of the night...and a special thank you to Gary, Jane, Becky and Rob for all your help!

 Happy Birthday, baby!  I can't wait to spend the next 40 years with you!

One last thought:   The party is over and, as I'm blogging about the great day we all had, Ken is at work.  Yes, it's midnight, but tragic situation occurred with one of his staff and he had to go in.  As he is working tonight on his birthday and on the eve of Memorial Day, my thoughts are easily turned to all those who are daily sacrificing so much for our country and for our freedom.  Tomorrow we will remember all those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom and way of life, and we'll remember the families that have been left behind.  I hope sometime tomorrow you can take a moment to pray for all those serving in the all volunteer force that protects every freedom we have come to enjoy.  I am thankful for all those who bravely step forward, standing in the gap for me and for my family.  I am thankful for my husband and so proud of his heart to serve in whatever way he is called.  And tomorrow, I will be especially thankful for all those who lost their lives in such a way and for the country they died to protect.