embracing the years

sunday

another year has gone by and i can't help but be completely grateful for each day of it. as i think about this past year i am reminded about the wonderful ups and downs, yes, i said wonderful. at the time, the downs sure don't feel wonderful, but as i look back i realize how the challenges pulled our family together. hardship made the sweet moments, sweeter. falling down instilled humility and change for the better. triumphs, great and small, are cause for crowfoot-sized partying. and laughter with the ones you love is absolutely priceless, and should be savored.

there was a time when i welcomed the elaborate fanfare and excessive attention from one and all on my birthday. maybe i'm finally growing up and have become aware of what is truly important; because all i wanted was to make each one of my babies feel special, to allow my sniffly husband extra time to sleep in this morning. i was absolutely content in cuddling with my babies and sam on the couch as we watched movies, eating pizza and triple berry pie. birthday bliss.

my life would not be as rich as it is without all the amazing people who i have come to know, who i am honored in calling my friends.

love would not be the same without my parents, sam's parents, the siblings (and their spouses) we share, and all the wee-little cousins we are so fortunate to have. 

aunts and uncles scattered across north america have showered us with affection and care as if we were their own.

this birthday is not about me (although, my parents just called gushing about the day i was born - and that made me feel pretty darn special). this birthday is about all the spectacular people who i get to share spectacular moments with. what fun is another year of life without these shared moments with friends and family?

it's true - all you need is love.

the housework can wait.

bring on the blankets, the wiggly toes, hugs, kisses, and sticky fingers.

today i am grateful for:

*growing older, and sharing the time with my family while i do.

*pie.

*lovely birthday messages from friends and family. thank you!