Tricia’s Birthday and James’ Graduation

I had my birthday in December, and it was great! My parents were in town for the weekend, so my mom made me a yummy ice cream cake and they watched the kids for us so we could go on a real date! We hadn’t done that for months and months So, we went to Lindy’s for dinner where I had a mac and cheese burger and Ryan had a burger on waffles and then we went to see The Hobbit. On my birthday Ryan made me a yummy dinner, I got to open presents, and we got to eat the homemade ice cream cake. Ryan made me breakfast in bed on Monday of crepes filled with cookie butter, Nutella, and jam and whipped cream. What a stud!

A couple days after my birthday we headed to Mesa for my brother’s graduation. After eight long years he was “hooded” and got his PhD from ASU! Go James! I am SO proud of him- it was a ton of work and sacrifice for their whole family.

Here we are with the graduate:

My parents with James and his advisor:

James and his family and advisor:

After the commencement we had a big luau for all of James’ family and friends at my parent’s house. Here he is, Dr. Martin:

Here is what my parent’s backyard looked like (part of it). I thought Savili and my mom did an awesome job! The kids danced, we had a yummy buffet and lots of fun was had by all, even in the cold.