It’s your Birthday!!

Jasmine, before you freak out wondering what this is, don't worry, it's just me! I've never been good at surprises. In fact I don't think I've ever surprised you in the last twelve and a half years that I've known you… well, except for now. SURPRISE!!!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!

I once heard that the faintest of ink is better than any memory. In light of this, I decided to hijack your blog and write you a note on your 30th birthday. If it weren't for your blog, my memories of a random Sunday and the Hammock wouldn't be so clear. I'm writing because I don't ever want to forget today. The look on your face. The way you smile. The way you laugh. The way you look at me. And especially the way you celebrate life.

Growing up, I always found myself making excuses to celebrate. That's why when you'd book a wedding, when we'd pay our taxes and even when it'd rain, a celebration was required. I never realized I did it until you pointed it out. As much as I want to pretend that I hate your birthday week extravaganza, I think what I hate the most is the fact that you made it up and not me!  When you mentioned the magnitude of THIS Birthday–THEE Birthday–I immediately froze at the thought of coming up with a way to celebrate. I asked everyone I knew for ideas and played countless party scenarios in my head. One idea involved tight rope dancers and flame throwers, but after all the ideas settled, I realized the perfect way to celebrate your birthday is to celebrate you!

Jasmine, thank you for sharing your life with me. Thank you for your simplicity. Thank you for always choosing love. Thank you for always being willing to raise your glass for a toast. Thank you for reminding me to live in the moment. Thank you for always keeping it real!

Here's to celebrating YOU on your 30th Birthday! I know I said these pictures were just for me…but I kinda lied 😉

My two favorites.

Your smile is my favorite kind of smile 🙂

Jasmine, thanks for teaching me how to shoot backlit. It's the small things in life, right? 🙂

Thank you for always forcing me to take a picture. So we never forget.

Thank you for allowing me to capture a glimpse of you as you turn 30…Happy Birthday, my love.

***UPDATED TO ADD***
Oh, friends, I'm so, so overwhelmed right now. I've been reading every.single.comment and I'm blown away by your kindness, support, and love. Today I feel like the luckiest girl in the world and I just wanted to thank you. Personally. xoxo…j*