'RHONJ' News: Teresa Giudice Celebrates 44th Birthday

By Marvie Basilan, Christian Post Contributor Friday, May 20, 2016

Despite all the setbacks on her life over the past few years, Teresa Giudice seems to have overcome them all as she celebrated her 44th birthday on Wednesday, surrounded by her family and close friends.

According to E! News, a source said, "It was a small, loving family affair." All of Giudice's daughters that she shares with husband Joe were present: Gia, Gabriella, Milania, and Audriana. The "Real Housewives of New Jersey" shared photos of her birthday celebration on Instagram.

Her mother, Antonia Gorga, also didn't miss the big day, along with brother Joe Gorga, and his wife, Melissa, who also stars in "RHONJ."

It is unclear who among Giudice's friends attended her small birthday party, but in one of the snaps, she is seen behind her birthday cake with Lisa Giammarino, one of her close friends.

A cake with white frosting, pink flowers, and blue decor was given to the birthday girl, who recently completed her 11-month sentence in prison for fraud charges. While it's safe to say that Giudice's entire family celebrated with her, Joe was unfortunately unable to attend the festivity since he remains behind bars.

According to People, Joe started serving his 41-month sentence since March 23 at Fort Dix. When his wife was still in prison, Joe took care of his four children and was able to spend time with Teresa during the holidays before he entered prison.

Last month, Giudice paid her husband a "very emotional visit," according to a separate report by the outlet. Initially, Giudice wasn't allowed to drop by the federal prison but the family's attorney, James J. Leonard Jr., said the book author and her children will be allowed to visit Joe in no time.

Leonard also said that Fort Dix's staff and administration had been very professional and "have all been very pleasant to deal with." It is unclear when Giudice will check on Joe again but it is expected that more of Joe's time in prison will be shared to the public once "RHONJ" season seven premieres in July.