{ A New Year }

Well, sort of. Last Monday I turned 28. Mike gently pointed out to me that it's just two years till the big 3-0. I'm afraid my response to this observation was less than gracious. {I'm sorry, honey. I know you said that out of love....right? I mean, you're such a mature young man!}

The celebration actually began on Sunday, when we had brunch with Mike's family. It was a gorgeously sunny morning, and his mom made the most delicious basil strata, accompanied by fresh strawberries and a sherry dip for the berries. We had sparkling cider, too; I had a senior moment and couldn't remember what it was called when I wanted a refill, finally saying "Sparkle juice!"

Monday was a sweet, mellow day. Free lunch at work {Thai food! My favorite} for my entire department in honor of my birthday. Early shift = off work at 3:30. Sunshine + chilly temps.  My inbox exploded with birthday wishes from Facebook friends--I felt so loved! An hour exploring Pinterest, weeks after I joined--this could so easily become an addiction if I'm not careful! Mike was able to take the evening off work, so we walked a few blocks to a Thai restaurant that we'd never been to and had a lovely dinner. {Thai twice in one day! I was over the moon!} We splurged on yummy drinks--a Long Island iced tea for Mr., a mai tai for me--and unfortunately those were the only things I photographed. Thus, pictorial evidence of my 28th birthday is limited to alcoholic beverages. Nice one, Nikki. Nice.

We walked back home and snuggled on the couch, watching a travel show about the Hawaiian islands. Mike fell asleep halfway through Oahu, and I was pleased as punch to watch him sleep. It was a quiet, lovely day. Here's hoping that my 28th year is just as lovely!