That’s right, I waited until Chip’s birthday to write my birthday recap. Go wish him a happy birthday, then come back here. ;)

It was my best birthday ever. And a very purse-ly birthday- I got a FANTASTIC purse from Kathy T, and then Jim gave me an awesome purse as well, see? Kathy had the monogrammed purse made for me, and Jim got the the Dooney & Bourke purse because, as he said, “Now all you need is an SUV to complete the rich bitch look.” Hahahahahaha.

I got e-cards from many of my buddies, lots of great birthday wishes, and actual *card* cards from Malia (Malia’s came in the MAIL! Actually ON my birthday!!!) and John H (met up with him and his lovely wife at the Mothership, Kathy took me and Beth came with us) I also got a spiffy new Mothership BBQ t-shirt from Knuck!

Then later, Jim took me out to Cool Springs, we went to Macy’s, hit the BeneFit counter, it was a very lovely day.

Oh, but what a difference a year makes. My birthday last year went by with hardly a mention. We couldn’t afford to get me a birthday gift, my parents were too busy to celebrate much so we went to Cracker Barrel, hurriedly. No cake. (Not that I like cake.)

And it’s not just the difference in the celebrating of my birthday, either, but the entire difference in our *lives*. Jim is working a far more reasonable schedule. I’m working, and we finally! For the first time in our entire marriage! Have enough money! To pay the bills!!!! And even have some left over for fun! And savings!!!!!!

This time last year I was reeling over Nate’s diagnosis. This year, he has progressed to the point that he tests normal and doesn’t need therapy anymore. This time last year, I was worried about how I was going topay for Meghan’s school. This year she’s in free public school.

All in all, I’m a happier, more relaxed person. Everyone told me that my 30s would be a good time in my life. My late twenties completely blew chunks, but I am loving being over 30. I’m young enough to still be cute, and old enough to have some credibility.

I am finally living the happiest time of my life, and recognizing this.

PS: A few new blog posts over at the other place, check them out. :)


  1. Malia

    Oh I’m so glad that it arrived ON your birthday!!! I mailed it the day before thinking that maybe it would get there the day after but way to go USPS!!

    I’m enjoying being a thirtysomething as well. You’re right - still young but also been around the block a few times to know the bumps and turns. A yes, a year does a make a big difference, we’ve experienced that many times over the past several years.

  2. Kathy T.

    You know, if you think 30 is good, wait until 40! It just keeps getting better and people actually think your dumbass comments are “wisdom”. haha. I’m glad you had a good birthday and that your year has been better. You deserve it!

  3. shaunahttp://shauna.opishposh.com

    This post made me really happy — I’m glad everything is going so well for you.

  4. Sonia

    i tell everyone that the 30’s rock! I’d NEVER relive my 20’s (shivers at the thought). So glad you had a good birthday :)

  5. John H

    Hey Ivy..you’ll be cute for at least 24 more years…(O:

  6. Nicolehttp://sittingstill.typepad.com

    I think I am going to like you.

    see you tonight at bunco.

  7. Nicolehttp://sittingstill.typepad.com

    and I don’t usually do this, but hopefully you won’t hate me already…

    here’s my post on being 30. my birthday was in March :)

    http://sittingstill.typepad.com/sitting_still/2006/07/relax.html

  8. PARLANCHEQ

    Caught up on all the posts ‘over there.’ A few comments (because, sorry, still have not registered ‘over there.’) I LOVE your good-bad list. I think we have the same insurance plan because mine is also the worst. And people on food stamps should get to buy whatever they want. The sad truth is that junk food is usually cheaper than healthy food (meaning people who don’t have a lot of money probably have more obstacles to eating healthy than those with lots of $$$). Maybe that’s what people should get uppity about.

  9. newscoma

    I want a purse for my birthday.
    And a pony.
    Yeahhh. Sweet.

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