Friday five: Birthday edition

At roughly 8:15 this morning, I will officially be 29!  I can hardly believe it -- probably because I'm still carded at bars and movie theaters.  Yes, really.

But I'm thankful for even that, as well as my wonderful husband, family, friends, and even you.  I consider myself incredibly blessed, and this past year has been so fun and so memorable.  In fact, it's probably been the best one yet!  I know I say that each year, but I genuinely believe that.  If each year can be as good as the last, consider me the happiest person in the world.

Being surrounded by the most amazing people makes me feel totally spoiled every single day, and -- I know you're not supposed to say this, but I'll say it anyway -- I love every second of it.  Though I don't expect any of it.  It's merely icing on the cake.

The cake being the one I make myself.  Truth be told, I enjoy my birthday so much because it's the one day a year that I make a conscious effort to appreciate all of the little things that I can do for myself that bring me the most joy.  And most of those things turn out to be things I do all the time.  I just make sure to fit them all into one glorious day :)  With that thought, here is this week's Friday five: "Treat yo'self, it's your birthday!" edition.  Here are five of the many things I will be enjoying for my birthday:

1. Early morning run - It.Makes.Me.So.Happy.  SOHAPPY!  Best way to start my day, period.  Especially in light of what's planned for later that night...

2. Birthday freebies - This is one exception to the "everyday routine" and I look forward to it every year.  I've managed to scout out all of the free meals, desserts, and clothing coupons exclusive to my annual anniversary.  Do yourself a favor and do an Internet search for "birthday freebies."  You'll be amazed at the list!  I've been enjoying them for the past two weeks, since most provide a 7-10 day window to redeem.  I'm really looking forward to cooling off with an icy beverage courtesy of Caribou Coffee on my walk at lunch.  An iced green tea lemonade will be utter perfection in 90+ degree heat!

3. The Strip District - a.k.a. the food epicenter of Pittsburgh.  This is, hands down, my favorite area of the city, and I'm meeting friends there tomorrow for an afternoon of fun.  First stop?  Roland's Grill for one of their famous lobster rolls.  Lobster + fresh Mancini's bread = bomb dot com!

4. This list - "30 Signs You're Almost 30."  Can't stop, won't stop.  I've read it at least a dozen times, and I swear I laugh harder and louder each time.  Probably the most accurate list ever.  My personal favorites?  #9 - always.  #13 - can I get a hellllllll yes?  And #25 - you know, it's not half bad.

5. Cake(s) - After much internal debate, my dessert future is clear.  I couldn't decide between the two remaining cakes, and then it dawned on me -- why not make both?!  That's right, not one but TWO cakes to celebrate my very own holiday.  That Ockham fellow had the right idea.  Look for the recipes here next week!  And yes, they are epic.  Better work up an appetite, friends!

And with that, I wish you a splendid Friday, Saturday, and hey, while we're at it, Sunday, too!  Stay cool and treat yo'self in my honor ;)