A Birthday Week Filled with Pink Cake and Play

Looking back at this week in October 2009, it seems like the birthday celebration spanned several days. The centerpiece, at least for the kids, was a very pink frosted cake that we cut at home. I remember watching all the kids around the table, intently focused on getting their slice.

There was another party at an indoor venue, where everyone—kids and adults alike—ended up in a giant, colorful ball pit. It was exactly the kind of joyful chaos you expect from a kid's party. We also had a smaller moment with a single cupcake and a candle, another chance to sing and make a wish.

Amid the parties, we found other moments of fun. I have a vivid memory of a huge smile on a bright pink inflatable ride outdoors on a sunny day. And one evening, I caught a quiet moment looking out over the Bay Area as the city lights started to twinkle under a fading sunset. It was a nice, calm bookend to a few loud and happy days.