in praise of simple celebrations

There are lots of churches in Nashville and lots of church signs. Most of the messages don't resonate with me, but today, I loved a simple one that I saw at a Baptist church on 12th Avenue. It read, "Today is your gift. Love, God." 

Which somehow reminded me of this photo Maraka passed along from her daughter's 2nd birthday. I love the simple, sweet way that Charlotte was greeted for the day. Personally, I think as long as you make a child (or anyone, for that matter) feel special on their birthday, it doesn't really matter how much you spend or how much of a to-do is put together. 

Also-thank you to Melodie for passing along a new cupcake place on the Nashville scene (with $1.50 cupcakes!). I can't wait to check it out!