Yesterday the family came over and we got to play with all the cousins (not pictured because I forgot to ask if it was okay!). The visit was bittersweet for me, since I have no idea when I'll see them again and it's frightening how much we can all change in just a year.
For brunch, I made my polenta casserole. The highlight of my day was when my grandfather, who had been chiding me all morning about how much he hated polenta, leaned over and said, "I take it back. Your polenta is really good." [Recipe coming soon, I've taken the pictures already and everything.]
We also celebrated our birthdays. My grandmother turns 85 today and I'll be 32 tomorrow. My mom smuggled an awesometastic pyrotechnic candle back from China that played a song and everything.
We blew out the candles (after the big explosion died down).
And then my fro attempted to eat my poor 85-year-old grandmother.
But, seriously, my cousin Sara took this picture and it's probably the best one I've ever seen of my Grandma. I love it.
You both have the same facial features, and are both beautiful!
Posted by: denise | March 31, 2008 at 11:07 AM
I second the lookalike. You both look AMAZING!!! And happy. Can't wait to catch up when you arrive back home. ENJOY THE SUNSHINE FOR ME!!
Posted by: Tana | March 31, 2008 at 11:47 AM
That is a lovely photo of both of you. Happy Birthday!!
My daughter recently attended a birthday party for a friend whose family is from China and she had that same candle. It truly was awesometastic (great word!) and stole the entire party.
Posted by: Susan | March 31, 2008 at 11:48 AM
You look like you are having an amazing time!
Posted by: BethanyWD | March 31, 2008 at 02:49 PM
Happy Birthday! Your skin is FLAWLESS, Amanda. 32 MY ASS! More like 24. Enjoy it!
Posted by: Emily | March 31, 2008 at 06:50 PM
what a touching picture :) you can feel the love just looking at it. thanks for sharing !
Posted by: jennP | April 01, 2008 at 01:54 AM
Wow! Your Grandma does NOT look 85 and you don't look 32 - that's some good genes you have!
Posted by: Leslie | April 01, 2008 at 07:40 AM
85! Wow go grandma! Totally beautiful picture. Thats a keeper for future generations.
Posted by: G-mom | April 01, 2008 at 09:05 AM
What a wonderful photo! I miss my grandma. We shared our birthdays in September and usually shared a cake. Happy Birthday to you!
Posted by: joy | April 01, 2008 at 10:34 AM