Happy Birthday to ME!!!!!!

It's my birthday today and, so far, it's been great! I feel so blessed to have received lots of birthday greetings from family and friends. My sister, Angela, has even planned a get-together at her home tonight because she felt I could do with a night off from cooking dinner. Ang, you're simply the bestest sis a girl could have. (((Hugs))) I feel so excited and spoiled too because my kids have pooled their money together so that I can order more......MATISSE paints!!! I feel like a child in a lolly shop!

This has been a nice end to the week for me as it really didn't go well at all because I've been suffering terribly with muscle spasm in the upper back/shoulder region which mainly affected my neck. I could have done without a week of pain but, thankfully, I'm feeling so much better today. It's amazing what a trip to the doctor will do. Unfortunately, I don't have anything along the art side of things to show you because I wasn't able to sit and draw or paint without being in pain so I think that's a valid enough excuse.

On Sunday, the kids want to take me to the beach which is something I love to do but rarely get the chance. For me, it's pure bliss to just sit at the beach, take in the beautiful sea views, breathe in the rejuvenating sea breezes, listen to the sounds of the waves crashing to shore, watch the seagulls as they fly about squabbling over titbits of food and, last but certainly not least, feed my own face with yummy fish and chips. Sigh ~ Whether we go or not will depend on weather as the current reports aren't too promising but then, they're rarely right so I'm staying positive. I also have to see if my sister is able to puppy-sit for me. I can't leave Cody home alone all day and dogs aren't allowed on the beach.

If we do head to the beach, I plan on taking my camera and sketchbook with me so I may have some pics for you by early next week. Until then, enjoy your own weekend and remember to take time to smell the flowers even if, due to our severe drought and current water restrictions, weeds have taken over instead. Okay, okay....well maybe not in your gardens.....