Turning 40 felt Fantastic!

April 1, 2014 ~ I am officially "over the hill" ~ don't worry I enjoyed the ride down hill with my hands in the air like a true roller coaster fan.

Growing up birthdays were always a big deal in our house.  We may not have been given the most lavish of gifts but my mom never ever let a birthday go unnoticed.  She celebrated "your" day from sun up to sun down.  She always let us have big parties and one such party she surprised me and invited the KJQ party patrol, remember that radio station?  When my mom was called home to Heaven everyone said that my first Mother's Day would hurt ~ but I knew they were wrong it would be my first birthday without her.  Tom being the wonderful man he is, knew that and he has been making my birthdays great to help me celebrate the day and this year he once again did not disappoint but not only did I feel the love from home but my work "sistas" really went above and beyond.  When I arrived at work Tuesday morning my desk was completely decorated ~ black balloons and all.

Tess and her adorable kiddos showed up with more balloons and beautiful flowers

When I arrived home, the boys showered me with more flowers.  Also, since I was turning 40 I wanted to really go wild and I requested a 2  piece swimsuit ~ yep, you read that right; Shar in a 2 piece.  And you know what I LOVE it.  I don't know why I didn't put on a tankini before.  And we enjoyed dinner together at the Pizza Pie Cafe  ~ our new favorite place.  Loved going on a date with my guys.

My wonderful visiting teachers, Heather and Lynette delivered a delicious cupcake & card

Debbie, Landon and Parker also brought me over a birthday surprise.  Debbie and I share a love for Swedish Fish.  I love my missionary plaque and truly cherish our friendship.  She truly has become someone I love and adore.

I also received a beautiful card from my parents with a gift card to TaiPan and Breeze and her cute family spoiled me with another missionary decoration.

Just when I thought the gifts were done I received a late night visitor.  Sherry Hone from work and her daughter Jess, who was leaving for the MTC the next day dropped by a cake to die for.  I believe the correct name is "better than S.E.X cake".

This birthday post would not be complete without posting my gift from El Salvi.

I don't post all this to boast but I post to show how truly wonderful my family and friends are.  On a day that could have been a total downer for me was one that I will NEVER forget.  Along with the gifts I received countless texts and messages on Facebook.  I feel so loved and I know that on this day my mom was smiling and feeling happy for me.  From the bottom of my heart THANK YOU all for making my day FaNtaStiC!