My friend Shelly turned 47 yesterday. Earlier in the day she'd found out that her van had "died" and needed a $1,200 engine job done. Lousy start to a birthday, wouldn'tcha say?
I decided that I would try to help her have a happy birthday anyway, so off we set to celebrate her big 4-7. First we went to Rosie's Grill to share a Nacho Grande platter. Then, it was off to see The Queen. Not that we flew off to London or anything ~ we took in the movie, which we enjoyed. Then I decide to treat Shelly to dessert at Montana's Cookhouse. Once she realized we were going to Montana's, she made me promise NOT to let them know that it was her birthday. Silly girl didn't wish to be the centre of attention. After Montana's we headed to Chuck E. Cheese's just before 10 p.m. We had the place to ourselves. At that time of the night, for some reason, there weren't any kids in the establishment. We played a few games, had our photo taken together (Me on left, Shelly on right) to remember the evening by and then I drove her home. Happy Birthday Shelly ~ hope the year ahead is your best yet!
Just look at all the goodies I've received in the past few days in the Valentine Swap. Day 6 and 7 are pictured to the left. They are the handiwork of Caren McNee and Amy Huff . I'm just blown away by the variety of talented represented in this group of artists. Can you believe the yummy things that I was blessed with on Day 10, 11, 12 and 13. Day 10 was from the ever talented Linda Koch. It's a sweet little frame to put a special photo or piece of art in. I think I'm going to save it to put on my Christmas tree this year. Or perhaps I'm going to have to rig up something to hang some of my treasures on year round. Jennifer Rowland spoiled me with one of her gorgeous soldered doily necklace for Day 11. It's so delicate and shimmery. On the 12th day, Liz Smith offered a collaged heart ornament. She sent her gift in a trendy plastic container thingie too ~ extra spoiled! And today being Day 13, Penelope Harris (sorry I don't have a link for her at the moment) sent me a small poetic tag book entitled Heart of Red. She cleverly used paint sample cards throughout the book All good things must come to an end. Tomorrow is Valentine's Day and the last hurrah of this awesome swap. I shall miss it ~ whaaa!
The Be My Valentine swap organized by Lelaina Lloyd is in full swing now. We're up to Day 5 of opening wonderful artsy Valentine treats from all over the world. Unfortunately, I still haven't received Day 1's gift, but I'm hoping it may arrive today. Here are Days 2, 3, 4 and 5. It is so much fun opening these awesome little surprises every day. What talented folks! 
