musings & memories: 24.

This has been an incredible weekend. Like always, it feels like it went by too fast. And honestly, I can't believe I turned 24 yesterday. This weekend was amazing though and such a gift from the Lord. I drove in Friday and met mom & dad after the funeral for Mrs. Glenda. We just had a sweet day and fed the ducks with Ann, Samuel and some of our neighbors. Friday night we rented a movie and just spent time together.

Saturday morning we had a special tradition that I haven't experienced with my family in a long time! Growing up I always remember that the morning of any birthday was very special. There was usually a birthday banner (that I'm pretty sure was older than me), a huge breakfast, birthday flowers and a wonderful breakfast. After I went to college I usually wasn't home on the morning of my birthday. Well, for the first time in a long time I was able to wake up in my home with my parents on my birthday.

I woke up Saturday to see mom putting out some BEAUTIFUL flowers and setting the table for dad's amazing breakfast. There were some sweet presents (including a shop vac... yessss). Saturday we just went downtown. We walked about and took pictures and saw some of the Southeast Wildlife Expo. We went shopping for a dress for my party next weekend (I'm so excited Kara, Courtney & Megan) and then had an amazing birthday dinner that dad made. He made exactly what I had requested; stuffed flank steak, mac & cheese and strawberry pie :) He had actually marinated the steak for two days... that's a good man!

Sunday we had a wonderful service. It was Matt & Katie's first Sunday... how special! Mom and I walked all over the beach on Sunday afternoon after visiting with granny and collected shells and took some pictures for her upcoming conference. After church Sunday night Katie, Matt & Kyndall came over to our house and it was a VERY special time to catch up with them. I am so thankful God brought them to Pinecrest. I know the Lord has a lot in store!

Well... I'll leave tomorrow morning. Even though it feels like this weekend was WAY too short I am so thankful for all the quality time I had with my family and friends. It was the best birthday gift.