Denise is 40!

Tomorrow my big sister, Denise, turns 40!  Denise is just priceless.  That's one way to sum her up.  In fact, when I think of someone I want to be like....it's her.  She is the epitome of a giving, loving, tender hearted, do-anything-for-you girl.  I remember in the early 90's, there was a watch that she wanted SO badly for Christmas.  She got it and she was so excited.  A few months later, she went on a mission trip to Romania and came back without it.  It wasn't stolen or lost...a child over there saw it and liked it and sweet Denise gave it away.  I was about 11 when this happened and I was floored.  That is just one story about sweet Denise.  She would give the shirt off of her back if that's what was needed.  She's also such a good Mommy and a great wife.  I just can't say enough:) 

So, in honor of our big sis, we planned a little get-a-way to.....

GREENSBORO, NC!  WOOHOOO.  I know, I know.  Greensboro is such an exotic and fun place.  Well, first of all, it was so hard to find a weekend that we could all do this and we only had 3 days to work with.  Second, it was the half-way point for all of us to meet up.  So my mom and 3 of my sisters (my oldest sister couldn't make it) kidnapped her Friday morning and off they went!  It was fun to spend time together with no children and just enjoy catching up and laughing.

Here we are in the spa.  We did nothing that night but relax, eat pizza and cake!  We are so fun and young that we were all asleep by 10.

The next morning, we told her we had a special surprise.  She got all dolled up and put on her 40 Glasses and Fabulous banner and we were off.


Now, Denise is a big fan of the Duggar family.  She has loved them for years, and we have jokingly referred to her as Michelle Duggar many times.  When I heard they were coming to the Billy Graham Library the same weekend as our getaway, I was so sad.  And then the wheels in my head began to turn.  So my sweet husband arranged a special meet and greet.  When she figured out we were headed to Charlotte to meet them, she was excited...we all were!  I have to say that the Duggars are just like they appear on the show...very down to earth, approachable and SO sweet.  I like them even more now!  I seriously could have talked to them all day long:)

Here we are with Grandma Duggar and Aunt Deanna (Amy's mom).  Sweet ladies.

Then me met the entire family, minus 3 children.  I asked Michelle if she could come to our house and follow me around for about 2 days:)  Seriously, they have CUTE kids...very well behaved and very attractive.  And Michelle is TINY!  I love the Duggars!!!  (I even had a bumper sticker made for Denise's suburban that said that and put it on there once, but it has disappeared since. Hmmm.)

Like I said, Denise is a big fan....

...a HUGE fan.  This picture makes me laugh!

So, off we went to get some shopping done and then we had another surprise...

Sweet Julie Day, one of Denise's good friends who lives in Greenboro (see, it ended up being the perfect getaway location!), surprised her by meeting us for dinner at PF Changs.  This table had lots of laughs as always when Julie is involved:)

This picture was not posed.  Before bedtime, I came out of the bathroom and saw these three saying goodnight to their men.

It was a fun and fast weekend.  We all enjoyed spending time together, talking, and not having to be moms.  Sisters are truly a gift and one that I know I cherish.  I love my big sister, Denise, and it was a privilege to spoil and honor her this weekend!   

 Oh, and I found this in my Bible a few weeks ago and remembered why I had kept it.  It's a list of the Modern Day Proverbs 31 woman that we learned about in my last Bible Study.  It sounds like a certain 40 year old I know:

"She has noble character.  Her husband trusts her and he is proud of her.  She manages her household well and takes care of her family.  She sees and meets the needs of those around her.  She works hard and willingly.  She sacrifices for and loves "the least of these".  She plans for the needs of her husband and children.  She takes care of herself.  She is wise and her speech is edifying. She gives wise advice to her family.  She is eager to love and provide for her family.  Her husband and children call her a legacy leaver because of her example and investment in their lives.  She has a REPUTATION for these things among those she interacts with and those who know her."

See why I want to be like her?  Who wouldn't:)  I love you, Denise!  Happy 40th!