Hi Nina!

Here is the photo we wanted to send to you on your actual birthday. Ooops! This is now way past your birthday but is still sent with a lot of love and good wishes! You are a great friend to everyone who knows you: your energy, optimism and generosity are amazing and infectious. It's no wonder that your birthday party would draw such an enthusiastic and happy crowd of people who care about you!

Moving to San Francisco was a little easier because of you: you made us feel welcome in the city you know better than anyone else. When Natasha was born, you were the first to come and visit us at home. Your goodie basket was delicious and a sign of the amazingly giving person you are. When Aksel was born, you were the first to visit us at the hospital... bearing delicious basked goods, of course!

When I was struggling with the first set of guide books, your help was immeasurable. You were right there with me at 2am, offering emotional and real support that I'll always be grateful for. And of course your knowledge of San Francisco is unparalleled -- but that's just another reflection of your amazing zest for life and the way that you embrace the community around you and appreciate the wonderful things that community has to offer.

Nina, your energy, openness and generosity of spirit are remarkable. You are the kind of person who makes other people realize what they should strive to be. I feel fortunate to know you and to have you as a friend.

Now back to the point of this blog: your 40th birthday! You have joined the club. Oh joy. Congratulations!

Love,

Noelle