We had a wonderful gathering at our home today to celebrate Cia's birthday -- with Aaron, Tom and Lee, and Evelyn and Peter joining us for the festivities. I tried my best to keep it a secret from her, but around 11:45 am she said to me, "Wait a second. Are people coming here for lunch?" Well, I couldn't hold out any longer, and I admitted that a surprise was in store for her. Within a few minutes, Evelyn and Peter arrived, and she was thrilled to see them. Then, a few minutes later, I heard a loud shriek from Cia, and I figured Tom and Lee had arrived, which she was definitely not expecting. She was thrilled, I think, to have her most long-time friend, Evelyn, with her, and also her newest good friend, Lee. It made for a wonderful afternoon -- lunch, dessert, and long and loving conversations, lasting about 3 1/2 hours! Pictures below:

* mom and son at the beach yesterday *

* the whole gang celebrating the birthday girl *

* best friends forever *