happy birthday, dear kim

This morning the girls awakened Kim with cheers of "Happy birthday!" and little hands bearing gifts. Together, they held three envelopes they had made out of wrapping paper, and tied carefully with bows.

The first was from Lauren. Inside was a picture she drew just for her daddy. "Thank you!" Kim said, surveying the long row of red dots and a large, red triangle. "What is it?"

"It's firetrucks driving to a volcano."

"I love it."

"You're welcome."

The next was from Ella. Inside were four quarters. They were all state quarters, which makes me think that Ella has learned one of the secrets of successful gift giving: giving exactly what you would like yourself. (It was, however, easier in this case since the quarters came from states she has already filled on her collector's map.)

And finally, a poem from Ella:

"Rosis are reb,

Vilits are blu,

And all I love

is you, you, YOU, YOU, YOU."

I gave him a new Titleist/ASU hat. Much needed, and quite well-liked. It looks nice on him. And Mom and Dad bought him his all-time favorite gift for any occasion: a dozen golf balls.

He's at the driving range now, but we're dropping off the girls at the sitter and going to dinner tonight. I love birthdays!