Viva Las Vegas!

September 3rd was my birthday.  This year I had the best, most fun and playful birthday ever... thanks to my WONDERFUL, KIND, and LOVING husband David who took me to Vegas.

The entire trip was supposed to be a surprise, but after a little argument over me spoiling the end of a book we both read, the surprised accidentally slipped out.  Oops!

But that was all that spilled out.  Try as I might, I couldn't get any more information out of him... I wasn't told where we were staying or eating or what we were doing there.  David kept his mouth shut tight and I agreed not to ask too many questions so as not to ruin the surprise... and oh was it a surprise!

David and me in front of the Bellagio

Ric and Blake in front of the Bellagio

On the flight down to Vegas, David told me he wasn't really up for spending all of our time in Vegas, and thought a better use of our time would be to rent a car and drive down to Palm Springs for the day and go hiking.  Although I was a bit bummed by this idea, I agreed to go along with it, because you never know what fun will ensue... well that was just a misdirect.

Our hotel... we were on the 25th floor

We arrived at our hotel (The Palms) around noon and checked in.  Our rooms weren't ready yet, so we wandered out to the pool and then through the casino.  David and I both had to use the bathroom so we headed to the nearest one near the back of the casino.  As I was walking into the bathroom I swear I saw my friend Ric (my best girl Blake's hubby) but how could that be-they were in San Francisco... so I did a double take thinking "And that looks like Blake too," and then triple take where I yelled, "Blake, what the hell?!"

Blake and me at the Aria

Ric reflexively curled up into a little ball like if he didn't move I wouldn't see him.  David had arranged for Blake and Ric to fly into Vegas too.  It was such an AWESOME surprise.  They had other plans on how we would meet up... but it was just so amazing to run into them and have them there, I was elated!

Having drinks at Aria

Then when we sat down to lunch, David announced that he had just had a call from his brother Andrew and by chance, Andrew and his wife Helena would be flying into Vegas the next night for a conference for Helena's work, so they'd get to celebrate with us as well (I can't believe I forgot to snap a picture of all of us together- ugh!).  I could hardly believe it... too much fun for words.

Ric and David shopping!

The vacation involved pool time, lots of blackjack (Blake was the big winner), amazing food, fun shopping (The Forum at Caesar's is unreal)... and most importantly spending time with great friends.  I was really sad to say good-bye... It was the best trip... I can't wait to do it again!

Thank you to my wonderful husband and friends for making my birthday so special!  Love you!