With Gratitude...

I thought it appropriate, on the eve of my 34th birthday, to list some of the things for which I am grateful. Here goes:

- colorado blue skies and sunshine

- fun family night

- "the three", my love for them, and their love for me

- spacious counter tops and closets

- a loving hard-working husband , although he is far away

- dear friends in many time zones

- dishwasher, dryer, and wall-to-wall carpeting

- being near to family who I have missed so much

- house plants and herb gardens

- the Father's unconditional love

- memories

- health and energy

- spontaneous coffee drinking

- freedom and life with out war and fear

- redemption from slavery

- people who understand

- ice cubes and fans

- public parks and the library

- garage sales and clearance racks

- untexpected kindnesses

- peace amidst uncertainty

- birthday bouquet from mama's rose garden

Ahhh. It is good to be 34.

Birthday Reflections

Even moms have birthdays! In fact, I had one today. In all it was a good day. I spent the morning with a special group of women with whom I can laugh, cry, and drink coffee! I had Birthday wishes through virtually every medium (sms, phone, email, card, letter, skype, and in person!) My husband bought me a "painting kit" so I can start being creative again...very sweet.

The best part of the day was seeing it through the eyes of my children. Jacob (almost 3) saw my present and said, "It our bir-day...where my hes-ent?" He proceeded to help me open mine. My almost 5 year old daughter informed me that I "should really wear a dress or something prettier" since it is my special day. Fashion tips from a 4 year old...who knew? And lastly Brent, my oldest, made me a special card. As I was congratulating myself that he spelled "Happy Birthday" correctly, he pointed my attention to the picture. He said, "This is you on a tree swing, mommy. I made the swing extra big for your big bottom!" I had to laugh at his thoughtfulness!