Mandy turns 28.

I turned 28 on July 9th. We returned to the States from Ireland on July 7th, so I didn't have a lot of time to even realize that my birthday was 2 days later. Lucas as usual made the day very special for me. I opened presents on Wednesday when he got home from work. He bought me two Maeve Binchy books that I have wanted to read for a while. Some gorgeous earrings. My favorite and biggest surprise was an hour long facial and manicure. I cannot wait to go to the spa and have these treatments. I think pregnant women appreciate these kind of gifts more than usual. My mother-in-law, Diana watched Gavin and Tyrone while Lucas and I went to eat at the Cheesecake Factory and a movie, "Get Smart." The movie was very funny and the Cheesecake Factory is always yummy and one of our favorite places to eat. The best part about going out on my birthday was that Lucas and I finally had some alone time. We had a wonderful time in Ireland, but we realized it was a very long time to be away from home. We were also very aware that we had not had a break from the boys for a whole month. Lets just say my patience had worn very thin.

It has taken us about a week to settle back in and get rid of the jet lag. The boys were waking up at 4am most mornings, but we were all in bed by 8pm most nights, so we were getting our rest. Things are slowly back to normal. I am 7 months pregnant today and feeling very big and uncomfortable. Nothing seems to fit anymore, but I refuse to wear p.j pants all the time, just yet. I did get some birthday money, so I was able to get some bigger maternity shorts. Lucas is planning on testing for a position as an FTO (field training officer) on his squad on the 21st. He will train new officers who have just graduated from the academy. Lucas is a great teacher, so I am sure he will do well in this position. He is a hard worker also, so I know he will pass the test. Gavin went back to school and is doing very well. His teacher noticed that he is talking a lot more clearly and using more vocabulary. His school year ends on August 8 and he returns for the new school year on August 25. He loves going to school and he loves his teacher. His bus driver says he is the best kid on the bus and his favorite. This is his school picture, taken in May. My baby boy is growing up.