Happy 40th Birthday, Randee Allison!

Who wouldn't mind being 40 when 40 looks this good? My oldest beautiful daughter is hitting this milestone today. As her mother, it seems impossible that I've been enjoying her so much for so long. It feels like only yesterday that I got the girl I wanted and squealed with delight. She's been a blessing ever since.

Daughter Angela came in for this special event, and a group of us "girls" met for lunch yesterday to celebrate. We had girls of all ages and had a wonderful time.

This is my daughter-in-law Leiann, my granddaughter Candice, and my great-granddaughter Riley. Riley is at the perfect age - 2 1/2 months - to introduce her to the world of girls night out, or day out, or week out. It's all good.

We were so happy that Cheryl moved back to Texas in time to join us. I've been so excited as I anticipated this day that I feel like it's my birthday. I could handle turning 40 again. It seemed so old then, but looks very young to me now.

My sweet granddaughters Sophia, Baylee and Juliet were some of the younger ones in our group. They have the girl thing down pat.

Allison with friends Tressa and Jennifer. We appreciate them for celebrating with us.

Birthday gifts for the birthday girl. Yeah, birthdays aren't all bad.

We all enjoyed the unique gift Angela presented to her sister. There were 40 notes in a bag with a favorite memory written on each note and a roll of bills in each one was a sweet surprise. Some memories were funny, others were tear-jerkers. Allison's idea of celebrating her 40th is to go with her family to Disney World. The trip is being planned and some of us contributed to the fund instead of a big party bash or spa day. But a girl's got to eat, so another celebration is in the works for dinner tonight. Also, since she shares a birthday with husband Brian, it's definitely a family affair.

We're never too young to party. Riley enjoyed her day with the girls even though she dozed through most of it. What a sweet girl!

Is this precious or what??? This sweet smile was in response to her Aunt Dee's loving attention.

There's nothing like friends and family, and having something to celebrate. How thankful I am for this lovely woman, my daughter, and the joy she has always brought into my life.

Happy birthday Allison and Brian and God's blessings for many more. You are the light of my life and truly gorgeous at 40! I love you both!