Big Bang Birthday

This year we wanted to do something really special for Bill's birthday because he totally deserves it. Because he would have nothing if it meant that his son and his wife could have everything. It is his selflessness and his giving heart that makes me want to do even more for him. And we found the perfect gift to let him know just how amazing he is. A very special gift to say how much we love and appreciate our husband, daddy, son, brother, son-in-law, and grandson! A present with a Big Bang, just in time for dove season! A voucher for an over-under shot gun, which he has already turned into a beautiful Berreta!

I am pretty certain he will kill me for posting these photos, but sleeping in was also part of his birthday present! And while I am almost certain that a toddler poking you with a plastic gun was not the ideal way to wake up, I think he forgave us! We love you so so much!

August is a pretty big month for our family. My husband's birthday, my parent's anniversary, my grandmother's birthday and my brother's birthday all happen in August. All in that order! And now that my brother is living in Houston with us... we wanted to celebrate! In August gentlemen fashion at the Bar Next Door.

My brother and I have not always been extremely close. Don't get me wrong, we have always been completely supportive of each other... it was just difficult for a "know it all" Freshman and a "too big for her britches" Senior to get along in highschool. But I love where we are today. I love getting his calls to tell me about his day or to ask how his nephew is doing. Yes, I said he calls! I love that he comes over after work to help with bathtime and I love how he loves Liam. We are all grown up now. I am so thankful for my brother and so very proud of his accomplishments. Proud to be his sister.

And we owe so much of it to our wonderful parents... I am pretty sure we caused a few gray hairs, but I think we turned out okay!

 We reserved the patio area and filled it with friends and family, beer, and favorite August men's food like crab cakes, spinach artichoke dip, steak and chicken kabobs, fruit, and quesadillas. There were so many goodies to go around that even the homeless man on his bicycle made a few rounds and snuck out the back (wish I had a photo of that!)

When it was time to blow out the candles, there were a few laughs! You see, when Steven had his wisdom teeth removed, he was pretty "out of it" and when asked if he would like an ice cream cone, his response was "Yes, with sprinkles!" He might "claim" that it was not his request, but he surely didn't refuse the Sprinkle cake either. A special thanks to Kim Artall for making these delicious cakes!

Even though it was hot, I think everyone had a great time. I know that I did!

Partly because sweet Aunt Nolie stayed home with Liam for the first couple of hours since the bar decided not to let him join the party at the last minute. The plan was for Liam to come and then leave early with my parents... Aunt Nolie to the rescue! She is such an awesome sister-in-law.

Happy Birthday to two important and incredible men in my life! It was a fantastic August night!

And don't think I didn't do something special for their actual birthdays. I baked a little something for each of them, and Liam stirred with love! The famous Duncan Hines, yellow cake and milk chocolate frosting request for my husband (still thanking Ellen that I don't have to make something more complicated!)

And a batch of Funfetti cupcakes! Baboo!