Happy Birthday Kris!

Well, people will soon be rioting about the birthday posts, but promises that normal posts will return shortly. We went on a retreat last weekend, I went to Seattle this weekend, Daniel went to his first Blazers game last night, and this week we're doing mustache youth group. All that soon. Today, however, is a very important day.
Today is my (Kirsten's) mom's birthday. Now my mom's not friends with the camera, so pictures are scarce. But dad and I worked together to gather all we have (and I know she will hate them all regardless), so I also have these to add:

I know the quality's pretty bad (okay, really bad. They're pictures of pictures. And I took them on my phone...) But I love these pictures. I'm pretty sure I stole them from my parents, but I hope they don't mind. I think they were about our age now when these were taken (maybe mom was a little younger...), this was — I think — their first house, and those are dogs that are still really special to them. Plus, look at that bug. Is that even theirs?...And this is them now. Isn't that fun? All grown up...

My mom is a wonderful person. She's extremely passionate about things she believes in and does, she's hilarious, the life of the party, endlessly caring, and has a wonderful group of friends. Plus, she's a fabulous "chef" and an avid reader. And she puts up with us when Daniel and I want to play board games.
I have no idea when this picture was taken. I think I bought that shirt in college, but I feel like my face there makes me look 14, so it could have been anytime (but no, I looked much more awkward at 14.)
And my mom's favorite places are, I'm sure, her home and the beach (this is her and her friend Carol.) At least she gets to spend her birthday at one of them (I'll let you guess which)...and with about 20 of her closest friends, who threw her a party, and then a free birthday dinner at an amazing Italian restaurant. Wish we could be there...

Love you, mom!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!