Mom's Bday

Last Sunday was my mother's birthday, and I must say that it was wonderful to be in town for that.  I miss so many holidays and birthdays with all of the traveling and working that I do, that it is so nice to just share a celebratory dinner with the family.  We went to Buca di Beppo (a family-style Italian restaurant located in the beautiful Portofino Shopping Center in The Woodlands, TX)  I highly suggest it if you've never tried; the Mediterranean salad was amazing!

I went out shopping with my aunt Linda (her sister) a few days prior and really enjoyed the fact that I could wrap the gift instead of pack it in a tiny cardboard box for the post.  (The little things, right?)

I've already been able to spend a few days just hanging out with my mom, and I am so grateful for that.  She's a really great lady!

I had planned to take some really great family photos in this beautiful shopping center, but a few of us had to scuttle off prematurely to other obligations.  (Besides my parents and Grandma Bell that are pictured above, my Aunt Linda, Uncle Bob and sister were there too.)  Other than the inevitable harsh light (very little shade coverage), I liked the few photos we did take.

Happy Birthday, Mom!