Shes 40!

HAPPY 40TH BIRTHDAY

To my wonderful Sister-in-law

D has had a bad trot the last couple of years. Her strength and determination, astounds me. She has 5 children, that she is raising - single handedly. She looks amazing. She is incredibly smart, and works some kind of magic with her budget, so that the few dollars she has - stretches the farthest. The kids are well clothed, and fed. They want for nothing. Her house is impeccably clean and tidy. She works mega hours, yet come school holidays, she attempts to take her children somewhere special, everyday. Yes, she sounds to good to be true - Wonder Womanish?! Well, she is! She is one-of-a-kind, that is for sure.

She's never had a real "birthday party", since she was 18, but then it was combined with her Engagement Party - so I'm not sure that really counts?!! So, this year, I said, I would plan something for her. I thought it'd be easiest if we just went out to dinner - and people can just pay for their own meals. D sure can't afford to pay for 30 people's meals, she barely feeds her own children! Yet, I still had one invitee, tell me he wasn't coming, because he thought it was rude to ask people to pay for their own meal.... and tells me not to be offended. Well, I was. Silly me, for thinking its all about giving my sister-in-law and wonderful night with her friends? Anyway, moving right along. My simple dinner, has become a little more eloborate as I've had new ideas! I thought I'd get her some balloons. I ordered the cake, but will decorate it myself. I was going to buy a "signature bear", but decided to make a "scrapbook" signing book (more personal), I've bought candle decorations for the table. And created a "mourning her youth" theme, and asked everyone to wear black! I've made a couple of "tombstone" type plaques for the table too!!! All this, at the busiest time of the year for our business and family life!!!

Why do I do this to myself?

Because D is worth it.