A Birthday Story-- as told by Melanee

Yesterday when my alarm went off at 6:50 am, Kaylie and I drove across town to my home where my mom and dad had prepared the most delicious "birthday breakfast" complete with eggs, bacon, strudels, and chocolate milk. It was a treat to start the day off with family, food, and fun. (and greasy hair, pajamas, and glasses. I apologize.)

After breakfast I had to convince myself to get ready for school , because this is the first year ever that I have attended school on my birthday. Too bad spud harvest doesn't apply in college. But regardless, my classes were enjoyable and it was a joy to sneakily check my phone every few minutes and find a text or voice mail wishing me a happy day. After school and homework, I got to go to work at the elementary school. When I entered the classroom I was directed to the front where 15 kindergarteners sang me an amazing rendition of the happy birthday song.. it sounded something like this.. "Happy bewthday too uw, cha cha cha! Happy bewthday to uw, cha cha cha!" ha I also got to pick out a pencil and bookmark from the birthday bin. :)

As I was leaving work, I found this in my car...(from my friend Mindy that I work with.)

Upon arriving back to my apartment I found this outside my window...

And this when I walked in the door...

When I got to my room I found this on my bed... (the kindest note from my roommate Keeli.)

Then my family and I went to dinner at Craigos. More good food and even better company!

If that wasn't enough, after dinner we went back to my home where mom had an oreo dessert prepared. Therefore we endulged in more good food and fun.

By the time we were finished I was pretty much stuffed to the brim and all partied out. Little did I know that when I returned to my apartment I would find this...

And this beautiful fleece blanket that Aubrey made for me...

PLUS, I was serenaded, but this time not the traditional birthday song... Have a listen...

Yes those are my incredibly talented roommates!

All in all, I think I can say it turned out to be one of the best birthdays I've ever had! I've never felt such an outpouring of love and such gratitude for the people that are part of my life. I can't comprehend why I've been given such an incredible family, friends, and roommates... I just pray that I can always live worthy of the blessing. Thanks everyone for making it such a memorable day!