31 - Whoo Hoo!

Yesterday was my birthday!  31 isn't all that exciting of a birthday, especially when you wake up with a head cold.  However, in many ways I felt like it was a big milestone birthday for me.  My 30th year was rough in several different ways and I was glad to shut that chapter and be able to move on.  A big part of that starts with me finally getting a job offer (on my birthday - lucky me!).  I'm going back to teaching preschool, which I love but pays peanuts.  So don't think I'll be turning my back on my frugal ways anytime soon - however, I am looking forward to shopping!  For fun!  Because I want something, not just out of necessity!  I've already started the list of things I want around the house and hope to start churning out more furniture redos now that I have some capital to invest.  I have an idea of taking a $100 investment and using it to keep flipping furniture until I have enough to buy a big item like a new TV or enough to pay for our couch reupholstery.  Not to mention Christmas is right around the friggin' corner.  When did that happen?

So here's to new beginnings and new projects! (Imaginary toast) 

P.S. I'm always a little surprised by what free stuff you get on your birthday.  Not presents, but just free swag like a $10 gift certificate to a local restaurant, and a free night's rental at Redbox.  I'm not one of those crazy people who runs all over town trying to score free stuff, but if they mail (or e-mail) it to me, I'll gladly accept.

5th Birthday (Tear, Tear)

My baby turned 5 yesterday.



From last summer - but it's my fave picture.

 We had a very low key day since we've been celebrating his birthday the entire month (quite literally).  He got a few presents at the beginning of the month because of my mom and sister's visit.  Then we gave him his big present (a new set of golf clubs) early so he could go golfing with his dad.  Last week, we had cake while his big brother was in town and also went out to eat with his grandmother and got a new big boy car seat. 

So yesterday he opened the few remaining gifts, which included a Bozo Bop Bag.

It borderlines on creepy, but my son likes to fight with his dad - a lot.  And we're not talking cute baby punches.  My son would have no problem taking out a full-grown man (if he wasn't still small enough to pick up and move out of the way).  So I thought this might give the boyfriend a break.  It was only 50 cents at a garage sale, brand new in the box. 

Poor Bozo - he never saw it coming.