Today is my birthday and I'll be spending the majority of my time working today. I used to look forward to the chocolate cake my mom would make me and opening the gifts I'd received. What has come to mean more than cake and gifts, however, are the birthday memories my parents created for me. I am honored and humbled by the well wishes of family and friends. More than ever, I appreciate being on the receiving end of happy thoughts and positive vibes. Grown ups know that birthdays aren't really about indulging yourself; they're about pausing to appreciate making it through the highlights and the struggles over the last year and saying thank you to everyone who helped you. God willing, this year's balance will weigh more toward the positive side but either way, I'm grateful for another day.
In closing, here's a blast from the past photo from my "beauty queen" days. My mom posted this and other old family photos this morning and each one recalled a precious memory. What a wonderful gift! I'm not sure what is going on with my hair in this photo, but aside from enabling questionable hair choices for me, my parents were supportive and inspiring all through my childhood and adolescence My mother made one of the formals I needed to participate on the court and helped me bargain shop for the alternate one I'm wearing here. My dad drove us to a myriad of small towns and pulled the float in countless parades. I know I didn't appreciate them at that time and maybe I never will appreciate them fully, but thanks for all if it. Thanks for teaching me that one of the best gifts you can give is to make someone you love feel special.
And speaking of indulging myself, I'm heading out for a birthday massage. Oh and I wouldn't say no to a piece of chocolate cake ;).
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