New Mama's, Soon to be Mama's, and Old Hats...

This past weekend I flew to Tampa to surprise my friend Hallie for her 40th birthday!  Lillie had the bright idea about a month ago...and we have been planning ever since.  I arrived Friday morning.  Hallie's husband Emiliano picked me up at the airport while Hallie was busy at work (as a 4th/5th grade science and math teacher).  Lillie was already at the hotel, and the two of us enjoyed the early afternoon exploring Tampa.  The hotel had complimentary Museum of Modern Art tickets...so after lunch we ventured there.  Did I mention Olive was with us!?  I have been dying to meet this precious baby!  The trip was not only to celebrate Hallie's birthday, but also to meet Lillie's daughter who turns 6 months this week, and to see Hallie's growing belly!  She is due with her first baby this August!  So many great memories were made!  I am so lucky to have these friends in my life...since kindergarten...  To see them as mommies has been a dream of theirs, and mine for a while now, and I cannot express how very happy I was to hear them chatting about all the newness of their experiences, and to know the joy they are in for.

Le Meridien...fabulous hotel.

Museum Modern Art.

Me and Lillie

OMG!  Olive!!!

We surprised Hallie with a pedicure...and ourselves!

Yup.  40.  How did that happen?

Thai food birthday dinner.  Yum.

The new family!  Lillie, Paul and Olive.

Emiliano getting some practice before his little girl arrives in August.

Hallie, Emiliano and growing baby girl.

On Sunday we went to the Thai temple for insanely delicious Thai food.

Veggie, rice noodle soup.  

Hallie and Olive.

Our last few hours together at the temple.  I miss everyone already...