The other side:
2) Cool bookends and a book by Nietzsche from my cool cousin Budo.
4) Swiss chocolate from cousin Budo.
5) An adjustable size dress form, patterns, and sewing tools from my mother-in-law.
6) Books from my wish list gifted by my dear hubby.
And here is my dress form, who I have to name yet (any suggestions?), wearing the back of my cardigan-in-progress.
My mom made a fruity, fluffy cake that was just perfect. We shared some pizza and champagne. And then took the obligatory pictures.
My husband was a good sport. He normally doesn't like taking pictures.
Here are a few with my awesome cousin, who is like a brother to me, and my dear husband, who made it his mission to make me happy on my birthday.
My family is wonderful. I love every minute I get to spend with them.
And of course, it would not have happened without my parents, who I love a lot.
We even had some cyber-guests from Canada - my cousin Rudy and his wife Oici
I love Skype - it allows us all to connect. It truly feels like we are all in the same room. I even got to see my beloved grandma and my aunts in Bosnia that night.
Ahh, technology. And 20 years ago, we thought it was inconceivable that we'd have phones that would allow us to see the other person. :)
Among the visitors were my aunt Emina, aunt Jasminka, and my cousin Rudy and his wife Oici.
On Friday night, we went to Waterloo to watch my cousins Budo and Yasko peform at Spicoli's bar. When the drummer had to take a break, my cousin Rudy joined his brothers. They played covers of many classic rock songs. I lost my voice screaming and singing along, and I was all sore the next day from jumping around with everyone. It was quite a show.
The next day, my mom threw a big party to her sisters, and invited all their mutual friends and other family members. There was a ton of very delicious food.
While the "youth" was outside, the older folks were sitting in the garage.
It was so nice to have everyone there together. As you can see on the pic below, my bff showed up wearing a similar outfit. Great minds think alike.
In total, 49 people showed up. We stayed out all night. Saying goodbye to my aunts and cousins was quite difficult. But I am hoping I get to see them very soon again.
Sunday was a little low-key. I stayed at home and decided to finish a super-soft hat to commemorate this awesome week. Here is this fall's hat, knitted in luscious Misti Alpaca. 
Hubby and I spent the night sleeping underneath a thunder-stormy sky in a tent that held up well.
Our camp was in a perfect isolated location. It was heavenly.
After setting camp, my hubby and I walked a long time to find a perfect fishing spot. I just loved crossing the stream.
It was pretty hot so I got to cool myself down with the cold creek water.
We walked a lot on this trip. But the scenery was so worth it.
My hubby, the fisherman, in his gear.
We saw some "wildlife" along the way. There was a beaver dragging a stick in his mouth to build his dam, presumably.
There was also a snake that I took a picture of, but didn't want to include because it freaks me out every time I look at it. But the duck (down below) was a charmer.
Hubby didn't manage to catch much (yay for the fishies), but we had a good time, anyway.
And of course, at the end of the day, there was fire and smore-making.
It was a nice little getaway.
We shared a drink at an open patio, where this displaced cowboy covered some of the bluesier Led Zeppelin numbers. 
Then we ventured downtown, where we made a stop to soak our feet.
I love beautiful days like these. I wish it was May and 70 degrees all year round.
We made a stop by the nearby Ritual Cafe for some refreshments, and then hit Miyabi 9 in the East Village for some delicious Miso soup and sushi.
It is really a wonderful life I made for myself here.
Unfortunately, they wouldn't let us take pictures (you had to buy them from overpriced photographers), so this sneak peek isn't as sharp as I'd like it to be. Maggie was the best dancer in her group. The other girls looked to her for directions, and she had sass (second from left).
There she is with her uncle, post-show. I think he is proud of her. I know I am.
Way to go, Maggie!
Then we joined my hubby and his friend. They were fishing not far away.
I had to include this pic because I just love Spomi's dress.
We watched the clouds and the ducks on the lake. It was a much needed mini vacation.
We stayed with Jeff and Joe until sunset, then we went home, tired but rejuvenated.
