30 is the new...30...

I had a major milestone birthday last weekend: I turned 30. I think I handled it pretty well, but I did hate to leave my 20s behind. In your 20s, you're a sort-of-adult, but it's more acceptable if you mess up. People will give you some leeway because you're kinda still a kid. It's like when I moved to Texas and I really didn't want to give up my Massachusetts license plates on my car. Having the out-of state plates made other drivers think I was just a confused visitor instead of the sucky driver that I actually am. My 20s were the out-of-state plates decade of my life. Now I have to get with the program and drive like a native.

Anyway, I was lucky enough to be able to make a trip home to New England the weekend before my birthday. My family and friends are the best and gave me a really awesome birthday celebration weekend. 

My wonderful mom treated me, my sisters, my nieces, my grandma, my aunt, and my cousin-in-law to a girls' night in a beautiful hotel. My sisters provided the traveling bar. You can always count on a party with Nikki and Kelly!

Nick's Nest, Holyoke, MA - A staple of my childhood. Nick's Nest is located near my Auntie Betty's old house and, when my dad and I visited her, we often stopped for a bite. Our standard order: two hotdogs and two chocolate milks (each!), followed by buttery popcorn. No wonder I was a chubby kid!

Mimi and me at Nick's Nest

My dad and his beloved cat, Squeeky. He is literally the only living being (human or otherwise) who likes Squeeky, as she is pure evil. And I don't say that lightly; I'm a huge animal lover!

Ahhhhhh, Dunkies, how I love you! Why won't Texas embrace you ?!? BTW, I found a new favorite while I was home: coconut coffee with cream and Splenda. Yum!

AND

Even though Chris didn't get to come up to New England with me, he got me a couple of special presents including.....

Ta-Da! My very own sander!! And....

 This sweet handmade birdhouse!

We saw our first bluebird beginning to build a nest in it this morning! 

We also got to go to Dallas for my actual birthday and hung out with some great friends and family there. All and all, it was a wonderful two-weekend celebration and a great way to ring in a new decade!