It was a working birthday for our intrepid web reporter, who's in Columbus checking out Ohio State for the college challenge. Hoda wished Sara a happy 34th on Twitter and again during the show, but a marching band drowned out the noise.
Of course, that's just part of the job when you work for the Fourth Hour — every day is a birthday party.
Sara didn't catch it the first time, so they gave her some more birthday love. "I didn't hear you before, but I appreciate it!" she grinned, while a cheerleader shouted in her ear.
Hope it's a good one, Sara!
Julieanne Smolinski is a TODAY.com contributor who never underestimates the importance of cake.