Four Birthdays at Once...& a "Gift" for You

I think I told you last week that my youngest daughter turned 20. A few days later, my soul sister Kathy also celebrated a birthday. I usually fly to Nevada to see Kathy on or near her birthday, but this year I took all three of my daughters for a "group birthday" present (even though Kristian and Kaitlyn's birthdays are months away).

When we arrived at the airport, we discovered that Kathy had arranged for a stretch limousine to drive us to the Excaliber (hotel). My girls were tickled, and--admittedly--so was I. I'd never ridden in a limo, either! The first picture shows the girls sitting side-by-side across from the "bar" which contained icy-cold water bottles. The second picture cracks me up--they're each texting a friend to say, "Guess what I'm doing right now!"

The highlight of our trip was seeing "The Phantom of the Opera." For one thing, it was fun to see my girls all dressed up. Aren't they all so pretty? (Yes, I'm a biased mom!) But our theatre seats were FRONT ROW CENTER. We couldn't have snagged a better location. We felt as though we were a part of the production, we were so close to the action. And it was phenomenal--the acting, the singing, the elaborate costuming and sets. Everything flowed seemingly without effort (and I know what kind of effort that takes). We were mesmerized. It was amazing...

The girls flew home Sunday, but I stayed a couple of extra days to have some time with Kathy. I'm battling an infection (cellulitis) so we didn't do our usual "running around," choosing instead to relax and chat. But we did see the Titanic exhibition. I wish I had pictures, but they wouldn't allow any photography at all. Let me say, though, that if you ever have the chance to see this exhibit, do it. It isn't just your everyday exhibit--you experience the emotions of the passengers. Very well worth the time.

Here's a pic of Kathy and me before leaving for "Phantom." I've had the privilege of friendship with Kathy since 1983 when she hired me as her secretary. We've lived a lot of life over the years, and most of the time we've been states apart, yet our friendship has endured. I see her as one of my God-gifts. I didn't get a sister through the traditional means, but I've had Kathy, and she's as close to me as a birth sister could be.

So that was our birthday celebration for Kamryn, Kathy, Kristian, and Kaitlyn. I'd like to offer the chance for you to win a birthday gift. Kamryn just turned 20, but I'm not telling Kathy's age. When you leave a comment, include your guess at Kathy's age. I'll put all the guessers into a drawing for my newest book, Fields of Grace, as soon as I have copies in hand. Good luck!

God bless you muchly as you journey with Him! ~Kim