This is what happens when you turn 30...

Coworkers surprise you with signage...

And cake...
And your mom sends you flowers. And a balloon!

Sounds pretty good so far. But then, the thing they don't tell you about turning 30 is that when you go out in public, you are forced to wear a giant hat, and all of a sudden, your face sprouts a million wrinkles!

Thank goodness you can find solace in mail and messages from friends. I'm still trying to get the hang of birthdays away from home. Thanks everyone for all the lovely thoughts!