This year marked a milestone for Marshall and me as we both turned 30.  Hurray!  =)

As I had already turned 30 in January and was treated to an awesome family party thrown by my sister and family, I wanted to make sure Marshall’s birthday was just as special.  Marshall normally takes his birthday off and spends the day watching TV, eating his favorite foods and pretty much just lazing around.  I told Marshall he could totally spend his birthday that way again this year OR I could take the day off and spend it with him.  I actually wasn’t sure which he’d prefer and was very happy when he said he’d love for me to spend the day with him.  He did have to think about it though. 

We had an awesome day together starting with breakfast at IHOP with his parents and then a trip to the mall to see if the Apple store had the 17″ laptop w/ anti-glare screen.  Oh yeah, I should mention that my main gift to Marshall was to let him purchase his laptop now instead of waiting for it to be available for employees.  The difference in price is about what I would have spent on a gift and I knew that being able to finally purchase that laptop meant the world to Marshall.  He was very excited about that present.  =)

I then baked a cake and prepared grated cheese and other ingredients to make macaroni at Marshall’s parents house in San Ramon.  Although our plans were last minute they worked out wonderfully.  Dinner was great and after finishing cake and ice cream it was off to Dave and Buster’s for a night of fun and games.  =)

First up were these crazy bee helmet things for a shooter game.  Although I really dislike arcade/game places I had to laugh at how funny Marshall and Jack looked.  They seemed to really enjoy this particular game too so we were all having a good time.

Attack of the Bee People OR the two new members of Daft Punk. You decide. =)

Next up was an old-school round of Tekken between lifelong best friends, Marshall and Darrel.  I definitely remember this being one of Marshall’s favorite games and I have to admit, I was secretly impressed with how many people he had beaten that had to take the walk of shame (often with girlfriend in tow) after losing to him.  I know, I’m not proud, but still, he used to p0wn that game. 

Best friends Marshall and Darrel

Next Andrea challenged Marshall to a game of air hockey.  I remember Marshall used to whoop my butt at air hockey when we’d play years ago and I think he’s always considered himself to be an “air hockey master.”  I guess that kind of made the fact that Andrea beat him all the more humiliating (but funny for me). 

I think you're getting old Marshall. Getting beat at air hockey by your sister? Shameful...

After getting beat at air hockey, it was time to blow off a little steam with this sword fighter game.  Nice moves Marshall.  =)

Marshall practices his sword skills. Pretty good. =)

I got tired out just watching Marshall play that game.  I think we both needed a break at that point.  Since I wasn’t playing games I continued to take pictures while Marshall took a seat, the drivers seat that is, and raced his dad and Darrel at this NASCAR game.  He seemed to have a lot of fun with that.

Jeffery enjoys a drink while watching Marshall play a NASCAR game.

All in all a great time was had by all and I think this was probably one of Marshall’s best birthdays ever.  He was able to celebrate it with the people who are closest to him and although arcades may not be my thing, Marshall was definitely in his element.  Thanks to Marshall’s family, Darrel, Jeffery and Mandy for helping to make this such a special birthday for Marshall.  Maybe we’ll do this again for his 40th. 

Oh and before I wrap this post up, check out the resemblence between the “Dave and Buster’s” guy and Marshall.  The resemblence is uncanny. 

Marshall's D&B's doppleganger

After Jeffery egged Marshall on I got this picture of him imitating the Dave and Buster's "Fun can strike at any time" commercial. Jeffery always thought that guy looked just like Marshall. I can see it, sort of.

For all the pictures, check out my Picasa album.