Mingling with the Mantovanis

Last month we had the pleasure of celebrating three important Mantovani occasions: Clay's informal—and totally unplanned—birthday lunch at Chipotle; Will's first birthday bash at the Mantovani house; and Kristen's birthday getaway to Put-In-Bay! I think our friends have adopted the motto, "The family that is born together, stays together."

I still chuckle about Clay's impromptu birthday lunch. I actually met up with David on a whim at the Westerville Chipotle. On our way there, David saw Clay driving the opposite way up the road and enthusiastically honked at him. That prompted a phone call which then led to Clay meeting up with us for burritos (we obviously go all-out for such celebrations).

Will's first birthday party was a just a few days later (he & Clay share the same birthday!). I don't think I've ever been to a first birthday party that wasn't sweet. I love the guests of honor who are part infant, part toddler. And Will was a champ—he even let me hold him for a good 10 minutes before I lost out to the toys.

Birthday Boy Will with Grandma Edna

Daddy helped Will get his cake in tip-top smooshed fashion.

Noah enjoyed Will's party...especially that bucket of ice in this picture.

Will & Kristen start opening the mountain of presents.

And then the next weekend, we were off to Put-In-Bay! I haven't been to the islands in three years—since the last time we went with Kristen & Clay (pre-baby for all of us). It was the perfect day for a getaway. We were all feeling festive, the sun was shining at a perfect 75 degrees, and I was ready to get in some good girl time with one of my favorite people.

Clay & Kristen on the Jet Express en route to PIB

The boys catch up with Kristen & I after serenading a bachelorette party

This was the sight under Kristen's bar stool, which had me laughing once I realized someone had knocked over a drive-through cup under our table.

Me & Kristen. Aren't we fetching?!