Jess's birthday

Jess, my dear sweet niece, turns 17 next week. Here she in action on the basketball court (#42--Macomb High School Lady Bombers).

Uncle Drake in particular enjoys following Jess and the Lady Bombers.

Together, Uncle Drake and Aunt Heidi picked out a nice birthday card for Jess:

Along with the card we got her a book--and a gift card to one of her favorite stores, Hollister.

The gift card arrived in the mail yesterday: here's what it looks like (I ordered this but had no choice in card graphics).

Here are the birthday card and gift card together.

I feel this combination is making some sort of statement about what it's like to be teenager today. I like to think I'm "with it" (does anyone say that anymore?) for a 50-year-old, but you'd think that a retailer that targets teens would have some choices for a gift card other than a half-naked man.

Anyway, I am sure Jess will think nothing of it and be thrilled to receive the gift.